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“COME UP T(') THE SHANTY 


The Cruise of the 
Sally D. 


BY JAMES OTIS \v,ajola^ 

AUTHOR OP 

^‘the braganza diamond’’ 


ILLUSTRATED BY HUGH A. BODINE 



THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY 
PHILADELPHIA 
MCMX 



Copyright, 1907-1908, by James Otis Kaler 


Copyright, 1910, by The Penm Publishing Company 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 


©CU268021 


Contents 


I. 

Uncle Ben’s Advice , 




7 

II. 

The Rescue 




19 

III. 

War Declared 




32 

IV. 

A Matter of Business 




44 

V. 

An Unwelcome Visitor 




57 

VI. 

A Pitched Battle 




69 

VII. 

Uncle Ben’s Arrival 




81 

VIII. 

Uncle Ben’s “ Plan ” 




94 

IX. 

The Stranded Schooner 




107 

X. 

Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 




119 

XI. 

“ For Sale ” 




131 

XII. 

Shipowners 




144 

XIII. 

Wrecking 




157 

XIV. 

A War of Words 




170 

XV. 

A New Member 




184 

XVI. 

“The Baby” . 




197 

XVII. 

The Launching 




211 

XVIII. 

The Trial Trip 




225 

XIX. 

The First Cruise 




239 

XX. 

Getting Even . 




253 

XXI. 

At the Port 




267 

XXII. 

Freighting Lumber . 




280 

XXIII. 

The Family Home . 




293 

XXIV. 

The “ Housewarming” 




306 




Illustrations 


Come Up to the Shanty ” . 

He Stood By the Bow of the Dory 
They Set About the Job With a Will 
“ Tm Glad He's Coin' to Live Here ” 
“Them's Mackerel, All Right” • 


Frontispiece u 

• 4 ^ 

• 163 

. 201^ 

. 251 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 



The Cruise of the Sally D, 


CHAPTER I 

UNCLE ben’s advice 

Uncle Ben picked up a bit of driftwood, 
and began to whittle it to a fine point. The 
boy looked at him anxiously. 

“Well,” said Uncle Ben at last, “I never 
allowed that a lad had the right to run away 
from his home, an’ I’ve lived nigh to sixty 
years, man an’ boy, consekently it stands to 
reason that I oughter know how much trouble 
is likely to come from sich didoes.” 

“Huh !” the boy broke in, “you don’t call 
the ‘ Sally D.’ a home, do you ? I guess you 
wouldn’t if you’d lived on her a spell.” 

“No,” said Uncle Ben, “after what you’ve 
told me I don’t. An’ Cap’en Doak was only 
your stepfather at the best of times. Now 
that your mother’s dead it don’t appeal to me 
that he’s any relation whatsoever, so, con- 
7 


8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

sekently ag^in, an’ holdin’ that a schooner 
can’t be called a house, which same is neces- 
sary to the makin’s of a home, what’s wrong 
with your sneakin’ off unbeknownst to Cap’en 
Doak before the ^ Sally D.’ weighs anchor ? ” 

'‘But where could I go. Uncle Ben? I 
haven’t got so much as one cent in this wide 
world, an’ there’s never a single person who 
would take me in. Besides, s’pose I sneaked 
off while the ‘ Sally D.’ is lying here, I couldn’t 
get away from the island, ’less you should set 
me across to the mainland.” 

" I wasn’t countin’ that you would leave 
the island, Sammy. What’s to hinder your 
stoppin’ right where you are, an’ helpin’ 
me out in the lobster fishin’ ? I’m allowin’ 
that Apple Island ain’t the worst place in the 
world, ’specially when you compare it with 
the ' Sally D.’s ’ cabin while Cap’en Doak is 
ragin’ ’round findin’ a lot of fun in knockin’ 
you fore ’n’ aft by way of exercise. Now, I 
don’t wanter be taken as meanin’ that I 
think lobster fishin’ is a very encouragin’ 
business for a bright little shaver like you ; 
but it goes way ahead of the lay you’ve got 
with that stepfather of yourn. What your 


Uncle Ben’s Advice 


9 


mother ever saw in Eliakim Doak to make 
her willin’ to marry him, ’specially after she’d 
been on what you might call terms of friendly 
acquaintance with your father, beats me.” 

Mother did it all on my account,” Sam 
cried quickly, his eyes filling with tears as he 
spoke of his best friend.” “You know we 
had nothin’ left but the house when father 
died, an’ Cap’en Doak made her believe that 
he would give me a start in the world with a 
good education.” 

“ All of which he perceeded to do by gettin’ 
the little money ye had inter his own hands 
an’ squanderin’ it,” Uncle Ben exclaimed as 
he angrily splintered the result of his handi- 
work. “ Speakin’ from your mother’s end of 
the trade, it was a mighty good thing she died 
less’n a year after she hitched up with Cap’en 
Doak, though it come tough on you. Does 
he allow that you’re to spend your life — or the 
best part of it — as cook aboard the ^ Sally D.,’ 
with never a cent in the way of wages, when 
you, an’ he, an’ everybody knows he squan- 
dered full fifteen hundred dollars of your 
money, for I’ve been told he sold the house at 
that figger ? ” 


lo The Cruise of the Sally D. 

He says that he^s bound to take care of 
me/^ the lad replied, as if anger was rapidly 
getting the better of him. 

“ An^ he’s doin’ it by keepin’ you aboard 
that ramshackle old schooner, which is likely 
to drop inter pieces any minute, an’ savin’ 
what he’d otherwise have to pay as wages to 
a cook ! ” 

“ He’d serve me out terribly if I should try 
to run away from him,” Sam said half to him- 
self, with a tremor as of fear. If I sneaked 
off while the ' Sally D.’ laid at anchor here, 
he’d know just where I was.” 

^‘Well, an’ s’posen he did?” Uncle Ben 
asked sharply, looking down at the lad as if 
in anger. “ S’posen he did, what good would 
it do him ? I don’t allow that I own this ’ere 
island ; but I pay rent for it, which amounts 
to much the same thing, an’ Eliakim Doak 
would soon find out that he couldn’t tromp 
over me ! Sneak off inter the bushes this 
very hour, lad, so’s to give me a chance to 
talk to the old heathen in what you might 
call a sensible way, an’ I’ll guarantee he’ll up 
anchor without raisin’ any very considerable 
of a row.” 


Uncle Ben’s Advice 


11 


“ An^ what then?’^ the boy asked as he 
looked over his shoulder apprehensively, 
much as if fearing his stepfather might sud- 
denly have come within ear-shot. 

“ Why then me an^ you’ll strike out for 
ourselves. I own the shanty yonder, the 
dory on the beach, two hundred or more 
lobster-pots, with cars an’ what lawyers call 
^ other appurtences,’ an’ you shall have a fair 
share of what money comes in the way of 
Apple Island. I’m allowin’ it would be a 
favor to you, though that ain’t the chiefest 
reason why I’m makin’ it. I’d like to have 
for mate a decent lad like you, for it’s lone- 
some here sometimes — that much I’m willin’ 
to admit.” 

Why is it that you never had a mate. 
Uncle Ben ? I’ve heard lots of folks puzzle 
over the same question.” 

I reckon you have, lad, for this ’ere coast 
of Maine is mightily given to gossip. I’ve 
had the question put to me time an’ time 
ag’in ; but never felt called on to answer it 
till now, when it may be we’re likely to come 
together as mates. First an’ foremost, why 
did I come off here nigh to forty years ago 


12 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

an’ settle down to catchin’ lobsters, when it 
seems as if a man what was put inter this world 
to help others as well as himself mighter 
done better? It was all on account of my 
havin’ been the rankest kind of an idjut 
when I was young, same’s you are.” 

“ Oh, come. Uncle Ben, you don’t think I’m 
as bad as all that,” said Sam Cushing, smiling. 

Well, you got to prove it,” grinned Uncle 
Ben. Anyway, I couldn’t figger out that 
book learnin’ would do me any good, an’ I 
didn’t get it when I might, consekently I 
wasn’t fitted for much of anythin’ else. How- 
somever, I made up my mind that even a 
lobster catcher might lead a clean life, an’ I 
never run up agin any who might be willin’ 
to go inter the business an’ at the same time 
come to my way of thinkin’ ; therefore an’ 
consekently I never took on a mate ; never so 
much as offered so to do, till you come to me 
this mornin’ with the story of what Eliakim 
Doak was doin’ in his own behalf.” 

“ But I couldn’t really be a mate of yours, 
Uncle Ben I ” the lad said with a deep in- 
drawing of his breath, as if the honor was far 
too great for him. 


Uncle Ben’s Advice 


13 


Why not ? All I ask of a mate is that he 
shall live, so far as he's able, in the way the 
good God allowed he oughter, an' from the 
first time you landed on this 'ere island I've 
said to myself that you was a decent kind of 
a lad who wouldn't knowin'ly go wrong. 
Mark ye, Sammy, I don't set myself up as 
bein' any better'n my kind ; but this you 
can go sure on : that I don't reckon on bein' 
worse. I've allers had an idee of considerable 
weight in my mind, an' you might be the 
beginnin' of my runnin' it out, so to speak." 

What do you mean. Uncle Ben ? " the lad 
asked curiously. 

That's what I ain't goin' to say offhand, 
my boy. We’ll wait an' see if there's any 
chance of its workin' out the way I've figgered 
it in my mind. The question is whether 
you're minded to run away from Cap’en 
Doak an' the ^ Sally D.,' takin’ your chances 
on Apple Island with me ? " 

If you think I won’t be a bother an' if 

you're willin' to " 

*^In case I hadn't been willin', or hadn't 
figgered in my mind how things might turn, 
I wouldn't have made the offer, lad," and 


14 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

once more Uncle Ben fell to whittling a pine 
stick as if his very life depended upon fash- 
ioning it into a certain shape within the 
shortest possible space of time. “ An’ it ain’t 
any one-sided offer, Sammy Cushing, ’cause 
I’m allowin’ that your cornin’ would be a 
pleasure an’ a profit to me, as Deacon Stubbs 
would put it, to say nothin’ of the fact that 
you’d be livin’ a more decent life than will 
ever fall to your share aboard the ‘ Sally D.’ ” 
'' It’ll be a big thing for me,” and Sam 
looked timidly in the direction of the slovenly 
schooner which lay at anchor in the little cove 
near by Uncle Ben’s oddly-constructed dwell- 
ing. Sam was trying to screw his courage to 
the sticking point of running away from 
the selfish stepfather who had abused him 
sorely since that day when the grave closed 
over the earthly form of his mother. It’ll 
be a big thing for me if it can be done ; but 
I’ll smart for it if Cap’en Doak ever gets his 
hands on me ag’in.” 

If he does. I’ll be there to take a share in 
the business,” Uncle Ben said mildly, his 
usually mild blue eyes taking on the hue of 
steel. “ Come up to the shanty an’ we’ll fix 


Uncle Ben’s Advice 


15 


you out for runnin^ away, which shouldn’t be 
necessary, seein’s there’s nothin’ to run from.” 

Then the old man closed his knife with a 
sharp click, as if to show that the important 
business conference was finally closed, and 
went with a certain well-defined air of resolu- 
tion toward that collection of shanties of which 
he was the proud architect, and which had 
served to shelter him from the storms and 
sunshine such as had visited the coast of 
Maine during the forty years just past. 

The captain of the “ Sally D.” was stretched 
out at full length on the top of the cabin, ap- 
parently asleep, when the old man and the 
boy skirted the shore of the cove on their way 
to Uncle Ben’s home, but that he had been 
keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings 
could be told when he cried sharply : 

Are you goin’ to loaf away the whole 
day ashore, Sam, or do you count on cornin’ 
somewhere nigh to doin’ your share of the 
work? It strikes me things are at a pretty 
pass when the cook of a schooner can spin 
yarns here an’ there while he should be 
wrastlin’ with dinner ! ” 

Don’t let him rattle you,” Uncle Ben 


i6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

said warningly to Sam, and in a louder tone 
he addressed the half-stupefied captain of the 
'' Sally D.’' I’m allowin’ that the boy has 
earned the right to do pretty nigh as he 
pleases, while you’re layin’ here when the 
fishin’ oughter be good outside.” 

‘‘I’ll lay here till I feel good an’ ready to 
get under way ! ” Captain Doak cried angrily, 
and Uncle Ben replied placidly : 

“ Then by the same token the boy will stay 
ashore till he gets tired of decent company.” 

Captain Doak raised himself on one elbow 
as if thoroughly astonished that any one 
should dare speak to the owner and com- 
mander of the “ Sally D.” in such a manner ; 
but evidently did not think it necessary to 
make reply, for he fell back on the deck once 
more, and Uncle Ben said to his young com- 
panion in a tone of disgust : 

“ Leave the poor, miserable creeter alone, 
Sam. If it wasn’t for raisin’ a row that 
wouldn’t be seemly, I’d advise tellin’ him off- 
hand what you count on doin’ ; but the 
smoothest way is allers best, so you shall 
sneak off as has been agreed, till he leaves 
the cove.” 


Uncle Ben’s Advice 17 

An’ then ? ” Sam asked in a tone of 
fear. 

“ When he comes back, if so be he does, an’ 
which seems likely. I’ll be the one to deal 
with him, for by that time I’m allowin’ we’ll 
have the right to count you out of it. But 
you can make up your mind that he won’t 
raise any great of a row, seein’s he’s got sense 
enough to know on which side his bread is 
buttered. I’ve got a lease of Apple Island, 
an’ there’s no fisherman comes ashore with- 
out my say-so, while I pay the rent.” 

Having thus thoroughly defined his posi- 
tion, Uncle Ben led the way into the odd 
collection of building, saying as he took from 
the rude cupboard a generous amount of eat- 
ables : 

Here’s what’ll keep you from bein’ 
hungry for a couple of days, lad. Strike inter 
the bushes near the spring, an’ I’ll pass 
the word when the ^ Sally D.’ has weighed 
anchor.” 

In a timid manner, as if afraid of being 
caught in what seemed like an act of insub- 
ordination against lawful authority, Sam 
gathered up the food Uncle Ben had laid on 


i8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the table, and then hurriedly, as if actually 
fleeing for his life, he ran toward the thickest 
of bushes which marked the centre of the 
island. 


CHAPTER II 


THE KESCUE 

There was no idea in Sam Cushing^s mind 
as he ran at full speed in the direction of the 
thicket which grew very nearly in the middle 
of the island that he was doing anything 
wrong in thus endeavoring to hide from his 
stepfather. Although the lad had not spoken, 
save to Uncle Ben, of the cruel treatment re- 
ceived from the captain of the Sally D.,’^ 
through fear lest people might think he was 
“ whining,’’ he knew full well that if his 
mother was alive she would advise him much 
as the old lobster catcher had done. 

It was the fear of what Captain Doak might 
be able to do in the way of punishment that 
had prevented him from attempting to escape 
from his besotted, cruel taskmaster ; but now, 
with Uncle Ben to aid him, the situation was 
changed very materially, and but for the fear 
that his stepfather would succeed in recaptur- 
ing him, the lad would have been more nearly 
19 


20 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

happy than at any time since his mother went 
out from this world into the beyond. 

Fear of what Captain Doak would do in 
case he succeeded in laying hands on him 
once more served to lend fleetness to the lad’s 
feet and to strengthen his courage, while he 
took good care not to loiter within sight of the 
“ Sally D.” and to make thorough search for 
the best possible hiding-place. 

From a distance the thicket appeared to be 
dense, but once he was among the bushes 
there seemed to be a woeful lack of oppor- 
tunities for concealment in case careful search 
of the place should be made. Hurrying 
feverishly forward without coming upon that 
for which he sought, he passed entirely 
through the clump of evergreens, finding 
himself on that side of the island facing the 
open ocean before it seemed as if he had really 
begun the search, and then he would have 
turned in alarm to gain such poor shelter as 
the bushes afforded, had he not seen, rising 
and falling on the heavy swell, that which so 
attracted his attention as to render him forget- 
ful, for the moment, of what the '' Sally D.’s” 
commander might be able to do. 


The Rescue 


21 


Hardly more than a hundred yards out- 
side the long line of creamy foam which 
marked the eastern ledge, was what appeared 
to be a partially shattered boat. 

She's wrecked," said Sam. I wonder 
where she came from. Hullo ! " 

The boy gave a start of surprise, and looked 
intently at a dark spot among the wreckage. 

There's some one there ! " But it was not 
possible for Sam to gain a very good view of 
the shipwrecked person, because nothing save 
his head could be seen above the surface, and 
even that was hidden now and then as a curl- 
ing wave submerged it. 

Now indeed had Sam forgotten that such a 
man as Captain Doak ever had an existence. 
He understood in a twinkling that unless im- 
mediate aid could be given, the sufferer would 
be beaten to death upon the jagged rocks, if 
indeed any life yet remained. 

Dropping the food Uncle Ben had given 
him, he ran swiftly seaward until arriving at 
the water's edge, and then, throwing off his 
clothing, he made ready for what must nec- 
essarily be a struggle. By wading just inside 
the reef he came to the point where it 


22 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

seemed most probable the shattered boat 
would be cast ashore. 

By this time it was possible for him to see 
that he who had fallen into such a sore plight 
was a lad of about his own age, who waved 
his hand feebly once, as if imploring aid. 

‘‘ 1^11 bring you ashore, never fear ! Sam 
cried, hoping by such words to animate the 
boy, who was evidently on the verge of ex- 
haustion. Don’t let go the boat till I’ve got 
a good grip on you ! ” 

Once more the lad waved his hand, and 
even though he had been inclined to speak, 
there was no opportunity, for by this time his 
frail support had been caught up by the green 
waves as they made a dash for the rocks. 

“ Keep your wits about you I ” Sam cried 
cheerily as he ventured a few paces further 
into the sea, and the words were hardly more 
than spoken before the stranger lad was lifted 
high in the air. 

Accustomed as he was to the surf, Sam 
knew exactly what should be done, and he 
performed his task as well as Uncle Ben, skil- 
ful surfman though he was, could have done it. 
Bending his body until he was very nearly in 


The Rescue 


23 

a stooping posture, and at the same time 
taking good care that he had a secure foot- 
hold, Sam allowed the wall of water to. pass 
entirely over him, when he stood erect once 
more, ready to meet the receding wave as it 
drew back the half-drowned boy. 

Deftly he seized him by the collar of his 
woolen shirt, which, fortunately, was un- 
buttoned at the throat, and then came the 
struggle for life, when the treacherous under- 
tow tugged at his legs and the weight of the 
lad he was bent on rescuing, flung seaward by 
the heavy wave, threatened to overwhelm 
him. It was no slight task Sam had under- 
taken ; but thanks to his experience in 
battling against the surf, he Anally succeeded 
in dragging the stranger beyond reach of the 
next hungry wave, and then fell on the sand 
beside him, with not sufficient strength re- 
maining to stand upright. 

No longer than while one might have 
counted thirty did Sam remain thus inactive, 
and then, still panting from his recent strug- 
gle, the lad gave all his attention to the boy 
whose life he had saved. 

I reckon you’re all right now,” he said. 


24 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

with an effort to speak cheerily, an’ the 
sooner you move around a bit so’s to get rid 
of the salt-water cargo you must have taken 
aboard, the better you’ll feel.” 

“ It don’t seem as if I’d ever get back the use 
of my legs,” the lad said, but without making 
any effort to follow the advice given, and Sam 
replied with a hearty laugh which had in it 
more of relief than mirth : 

This ain’t the time to give in beaten, when 
you’re out of your troubles. ’Cordin’ to the 
looks of that boat you must have been washin’ 
’round quite a spell.” 

Since jest before daylight this mornin’, 
an’ it’s pretty hard work to make myself be- 
lieve that I haven’t been overboard a whole 
week.” 

How did it happen ? ” 

My boat was run down by the Boston 
steamer — leastways, I believe it must have 
been that. I went out alone to bait trawls, 
’cause we was short-handed aboard the ‘ Flyin’ 

Fish,’ an’ there was no dory-mate for me ” 

Who sent you out alone in the night 
baitin’ trawls ? ” Sam cried indignantly. 

** Why, Cap’en Moses, of course ; he allowed. 


The Rescue 


25 

seein's how it was good weather, that I might 
do the job/^ 

How long have you been sailin^ with sich 
a cap^en as that ? He^d make a good mate for 
Cap^en Doak ! ’’ 

“ This was my first voyage, an^ I ainT 
much of a sailor, ’cause I’ve never been to sea 
before.” 

What’s your name? ” 

“ Tom Falonna.” 

** Where do you live ? ” 

That’s what I don’t rightly know, since I 
cut loose from Mother Sharkey’s place. You 
see, I did chores there for my board, but it 
seemed as if I oughter earn more’n that, so I 
got a chance to ship on the ^ Flyin’ Fish ’ for a 
short cruise. I was to get ten dollars a month, 
if I turned to in good shape, so that’s why it 
seemed all right for me to try my first at 
runnin’ trawls alone. Now I’m afraid I shan’t 
find Cap’en Moses again. Where am I ? ” 

On Apple Island, with the best man, ex- 
cept my father, who ever lived. He’ll see to 
it that you don’t take any more chances of 
bein’ run down in the night by a steamer, 
but ” 


26 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Sam ceased speaking very suddenly. For 
the first time since sighting the young fisher- 
man he remembered that Captain Doak had 
an existence, and a disagreeable memory it 
was indeed. 

Hurriedly he told Thomas Falonna of all 
that had happened within the past four or five 
hours, concluding by saying as he looked 
around timidly : 

Vve got to hide somewhere till the 
‘ Sally D.’ weighs anchor, an’ there’s no tollin’ 
but that Cap’en Doak is close at hand this 
very minute ! ” 

The rescued lad sprang to his feet, but with 
some little difficulty, apparently putting from 
his mind all thoughts of self as he realized 
that the boy who had rendered him such great 
service was in sore need of aid, and followed to 
the best of his ability when Sam ran back to 
where he had left the food given him by their 
Uncle Ben. 

“I couldn’t find a place to hide in the 
bushes, an’ it’s lucky I didn’t, else I wouldn’t 
have seen you,” Sam said hurriedly when 
the two were together once more. It won’t 
do for me to hang ’round here very long ! ” 


The Rescue 


27 


“ Why don’t you go up behind them big 
rocks ? I reckon you could keep out of sight 
by dodging from one to the other, even if the 
old brute was pretty close to your heels,’* 
Falonna suggested as he pointed to several 
huge boulders just under the break of the land, 
and Sam caught at the idea without delay. 

Five minutes later the two lads were hidden 
fairly well, save in event of a systematic 
search, and it was Tom Falonna who ate the 
food with which Uncle Ben had provided Sam, 
for the rescued lad had not tasted even water 
since the night previous. 

I tell you this stuff is mighty good ; but 
you needn’t be afraid I’ll take more’n a fair 
share, ’cause it may be quite a spell before 
your stepfather gives over huntin’ after you.” 

Take what you want ; I’ll get along all 
right if I don’t have another mouthful till to- 
morrow, for it hasn’t been so very long since 
I had dinn'er, an’ you’re needin’ twice as much 
as we’ve got here. Tell me where your folks 
are?” 

Tom’s story was not a long one. He had 
been born in Bavaria, and when only a few 
weeks old was taken aboard ship by his par- 


28 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

ents, who were emigrating to this country. 
Both father and mother brought from their 
native land the germs of fever ; were taken 
sick during the voyage, and died in the 
quarantine hospital very shortly after having 
been brought ashore. Tom did not have a 
very clear idea of how he, as a small baby, 
contrived to live ; his first memories were of 
the woman he called Mother Sharkey,^' with 
whom he found a home, such as it was, until 
a few days before being cast up on Apple Is- 
land, when he had shipped as a green hand 
aboard the Flying Fish.” 

Although the recital did not occupy more 
than two or three minutes, it had hardly come 
to an end when Sam started up in alarm as if 
to take to his heels ; but Tom forced him back 
behind the rocks as he asked in a whisper : 

What's the matter now ? You'll be seen 
unless you're more careful ! '' 

“ Don't you hear that man talkin' ? '' Sam 
whispered in a tremulous voice. That's 
Cap'en Doak, an' he's after me ! '' 

** There's somebody with him.” 

** Yes, it's Uncle Ben.” 

‘^Then what makes you jump around so 


The Rescue 


29 


much ? If the old lobster catcher is half as 
good a man as you think, he'll see to it your 
stepfather won't kick up too much of a row." 

“ I don't know whether he can stop Cap'en 
Doak when he gets goin' right strong, for he's 
terrible sometimes." 

Well, keep behind the rock, an’ don't 
leave this place till you're certain he's got his 
eye on you. I've hid from Mother Sharkey 
so many times that I know how it oughter be 
done." 

By this time the lads could hear plainly the 
voices of the two men, and but few words were 
needed to explain why Uncle Ben was in such 
bad company. 

“ I know he’s somewhere on the island, an’ 
I’ll hunt him out if I stay here a week ! ’’ 
Captain Doak was saying angrily. 

You'll do nothin' of the kind, Eliakim 
Doak, an’ that I’m tollin’ you for a fact. I’ve 
allowed you to come across here rather’n have 
an up an’ down row ; but even if you got your 
hands on the boy you shouldn’t take him 
away, an’ that you can count on. As for 
stoppin’ ashore here any length of time, that’s 
for me to say. So long as I pay the rent, this 


30 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

^ere island is my private property, an^ if you’re 
on it an hour from this time I’ll bring suit 
agin you for trespass as sure as my name’s 
Ben Johnson ! ” 

I’m allowin’ to do pretty nigh as I please,” 
Captain Doak cried in a rage, and Uncle Ben 
replied in a placid tone as he turned to retrace 
his steps : 

’Cordin’ to my way of thinkin’, Eliakim, 
you’re makin’ the biggest kind of a mistake, 
an’ I’m goin’ to take the trouble to prove it 
before another half hour goes over our heads.” 

The lobster catcher was some distance on 
his way to the opposite shore before he ceased 
speaking, and then, peering cautiously out 
from behind the rock, Tom could see that 
the master of the Sally D.” was decidedly 
disturbed in mind, for he stood irresolutely, 
shifting from one foot to the other as if un- 
certain exactly what course to pursue. 

What can your Uncle Ben do if the cap’en 
turns real rusty ? ” Tom asked in the softest 
of whispers, and Sam replied with a sigh of 
anxiety : 

It seems to me as if he can’t do anythin’, 
for there’s nobody else on the island.” 


The Rescue 


31 


Well, he^s made a right good bluff of it, 
anyway, an’ has got this pirate of yours 
guessin’ mighty hard,” Tom whispered in a 
tone of satisfaction, after which he turned his 
attention to spying upon the commander of 
the “ Sally D.” 


CHAPTER III 


WAR DECLARED 

Captain Eliakim Doak remained as if in 
deep thought for several moments after Uncle 
Ben left him with what, from such a placid 
man as the old lobster catcher, was a most 
emphatic threat. Bluster as he might, and 
even Deacon Stubbs had been heard to say 
that the commander of the Sally was 
stronger at blustering than he was at fighting, 
he understood full well that it would be in 
the power of Uncle Ben to make matters very 
inconvenient, if not absolutely disagreeable for 
him. 

As a matter of course Uncle Ben as the 
owner or lessee of the island had no right to 
forbid vessels to anchor in the coves ; but it 
was for him to say who should be permitted 
to come ashore, and the fisherman who could 
not take aboard his water supply from this 
particular place would be put to great incon- 
venience. Until to-day Uncle Ben had wel- 
32 


War Declared 


33 


corned any who pleased to visit the island, and 
was ever ready to lend a hand when it was 
needed, therefore it can readily be seen that 
for business reasons, if for no other. Captain 
Doak could not well afford to seriously offend 
the old lobster catcher. 

The question to be decided in Captain 
Doak^s mind was as to which would be the 
greater loss, Sam’s services, which did not cost 
him anything in the way of money, or Uncle 
Ben’s friendship, which really meant the shut- 
ting out of Apple Island’s conveniences from 
the “ Sally D.” and her commander. 

It was evident that Captain Doak decided 
he could get along without the lobster catcher’s 
friendship better than he could the cook to 
whom he paid nothing, for after a brief time 
of hesitation and thought he said sufficiently 
loud to be heard by those who were hiding 
behind the rocks : 

If that old lobster thinks I’m dependin’ 
on him for fresh water, he’ll soon find he’s 
mistaken, an’ as for his standin’ up with Sam 
agin me, I’ll let him know that it’s a job he’d 
better not tackle I ” 

Then, as if having forgotten that he had 


34 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

crossed the island in search of the runaway, 
Captain Doak followed rapidly in Uncle Ben’s 
footsteps, and Sam whispered to his new-made 
friend : 

There’s goin’ to be a big row now for sure. 
The cap’en has got his back up, an’ I’m afraid 
Uncle Ben will get the worst of it.” 

“ It kinder strikes me that we’re bound to 
take a hand in it, ’cordin’ to all you’ve said 
’bout both of ’em,” Tom replied in a matter- 
of-fact tone. “ If your boss gets the upper 
hand things are likely to be warm for you, so 
the play is to put in what licks we can for the 
other one.” 

** We couldn’t do anything ! ” Sam exclaimed 
with a long-drawn sigh. Cap’en Doak would 
chew us all up before we’d even winked.” 

“ I ain’t so certain of that. I’ve never seen 
a row yet, an’ I’ve been mixed up with a lot 
of ’em in my day, when a boy didn’t have a 
chance to make considerable of a showin’, if 
he was willin’ to pitch in. Come on before 
it’s too late I Your boss has got inter the 
bushes by this time an’ won’t be likely to 
know what we’re up to if we keep our wits 
about us.” 


War Declared 


35 


Sam, not believing it would be possible to 
lend aid to Uncle Ben, and not eager to come 
any nearer his stepfather than might be ab- 
solutely necessary, would have refused to leave 
his place of concealment, but Tom had stepped 
out from behind the rocks as he spoke, setting 
off at once in the same direction as that taken 
by Captain Doak. 

Keep close behind me an^ I’ll show you 
how to work a trick or two,” Tom said, as if 
to show that he had taken command of the 
party, and then he walked at such a rapid pace 
that Sam could not have taken the lead even 
had he been so disposed. 

It was not difficult to follow the commander 
of the Sally D.” without attracting his at- 
tention ; the threat made by Uncle Ben had 
aroused Captain Doak’s anger to such an ex- 
tent that he appeared to have forgotten Sam 
entirely. 

Until the angry fisherman had passed 
through the thicket Tom kept reasonably close 
to his heels, but when he came out into the 
open, on the slope which led to the cove, it 
became necessary for the boys to hang back 
until quite a distance in the rear. Therefore, 


36 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

when he turned sharply to the left around the 
shed in which Uncle Ben stored his fuel, the 
lads no longer had him in view. 

In order to advance with the least danger 
of being seen Tom had made a wide detour to 
gain the shelter of a stack of lobster-pots, with 
no idea in mind that there was any necessity 
for moving rapidly. But suddenly he heard 
the voice of Captain Doak, raised high as if in 
anger. 

Now there will be a row, an’ if we don’t 
take a hand Uncle Ben is bound to get the 
worst of it ! ” Sam cried, as he urged Tom for- 
ward by gripping his arm firmly. Come on ! 
We’ve got to help Uncle Ben I ” 

His own fears were forgotten in the desire 
to aid the old man who had been so kind to 
him. 

The boys arrived on the scene at the exact 
moment when their services were most needed 
by Uncle Ben, for the master of the '' Sally 
D.,” apparently half crazed by anger, was 
rushing toward the lobster catcher with 
clenched fists. 

I reckon here’s where we get our work 
in ! ” Tom cried, as if delighted by the evi- 


War Declared 


37 

dences of trouble, and catching up the first 
missile that came to his hand, which proved 
to be a lobster-pot buoy, with a half-inch rope 
made fast to one end, he ran between the two 
men, swinging the heavy weapon in a threat- 
ening manner. 

So blinded by his rage was Captain Doak 
that he apparently did not see the newcomers 
until Sam, armed with a heavy stake, pressed 
close by the side of his friend, and then, sud- 
denly recognizing the truant cook, the com- 
mander of the “ Sally sprang forward to 
seize him. 

** None of that, or I’ll let this ’ere buoy come 
agin your head ! ” Tom cried threateningly. 
He swung his improvised weapon yet more 
vigorously, and Captain Doak fell back a few 
paces, for a single blow from the heavy missile 
would have inflicted a serious wound. 

“Why didn’t you stay in the bushes?” 
Uncle Ben asked sharply of Sam, and before 
the latter could reply Captain Doak shouted : 

“ Get aboard the schooner, you young idler, 
an’ when I’ve settled with this Ben Johnson 
I’ll ’tend to your case in sich a way that you 
won’t try to give me the slip ag’in I ” 


38 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ He’ll stay where he is I An’ if you raise 
your hand against him we’ll see what the law 
can do toward makin’ you pay over to the lad 
the money what belongs to him from the sellin’ 
of his mother’s house ! ” Uncle Ben cried, as 
he pulled Sam toward him, at the same time 
looking in bewilderment at Tom, as if won- 
dering where he had dropped from. 

Angry though Captain Doak was, he could 
understand without too great a mental effort 
that the odds were against him. 

If you think you can carry matters with 
sich a high hand, Ben Johnson, keep on 
tryin’, an’ before you’re many days older I’ll 
show you what claim I’ve got on that idle, 
worthless Sam. You’ve run agin the wrong 
man when you tackle me, an’ I’ll straighten 
out things on this ’ere island if I never wet 
another line this season.” 

'' An’ I’m tollin’ you, Eliakim Doak, that 
you shall answer to the law for trespass. I’ve 
warned you off this place, an’ you’ve stayed to 
threaten, so it’s time I found out who’s master 
here,” Uncle Ben replied, his face pale with 
anger, but his voice calm and low. 

Just for one moment Captain Doak lingered. 


War Declared 


39 


as if to decide whether there was yet a possi- 
bility of his overcoming the small army op- 
posed to him, and then, shaking his fist in 
impotent rage, he walked slowly away to where 
the “ Sally D/s dory lay with her bow on the 
beach. 

Uncle Ben followed slowly, the boys trailing 
on behind him, and not until the fisherman 
had pulled off to the schooner was any word 
spoken by those on the island. Then the old 
lobster catcher said with a sigh, which might 
have been one of regret : 

“ Vye lived here nigh to thirty years, off an^ 
on, an^ this is the first time I’ve had a hard 
word with man or boy. I reckon Eliakim an’ 
I have declared war now, though, an’ it stands 
me in hand to keep my weather eye open, for 
he ain’t the kind of a man who’s given to fair 
fightin’.” Then, turning suddenly upon Sam, 
he asked, pointing toward Tom, ** Where did 
that lad come from, an’ what made you try to 
take a hand in the row ? ” 

** We couldn’t stand still an’ see Cap’en Doak 
jump on you,” Sam replied quickly, and then, 
in the fewest possible words, he told of Tom’s 
rescue, giving to himself very little credit for 


40 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

what had been done in the way of saving 
life. 

It begins to look as if the good Lord was 
bound I should carry out the plan IVe been 
turnin’ over in my mind these many years,” 
Uncle Ben said slowly, as if thinking aloud, 
and when Sam asked for an explanation of the 
words he added : Get inter the shanty, lads ; 
there’s no good reason why you should stay 
outside here where the sight of you will only 
make Eliakim Doak worse. We’ll talk this 
over later, when we’ve got more time. Now 
it stands me in hand to make ready for a trip 
to town.” 

To town, Uncle Ben ! ” Sam cried as if in 
alarm. If you go while the 'Sally D.’ is 
layin’ here, Cap’en Doak will come ashore an’ 
serve me out terribly.” 

" I’m allowin’ the two of us could make it 
mighty hot for him if he tried any funny 
business,” Tom interrupted, and from the 
tone of his voice one would have said that it 
would give him no little pleasure to try con- 
clusions with the commander of the " Sally D.” 

" I shan’t go away while that schooner is 
anchored off here,” Uncle Ben said decidedly. 


War Declared 


41 


What’s more, I’m grieved that I’ve let my 
temper get the best of me, even though Elia- 
kim did threaten. Howsomever, it stands me 
in hand to take the consequences, which are 
that I must go to town after riggin’ up some 
kind of a plan so’s to make sure of findin’ 
you lads here when I get back.” 

“ Is it because of your plan that you’re 
goin’, Uncle Ben ? ” Sam asked as if in doubt 
as to whether he had the right to raise such a 
question. 

No, lad, I’ve got to go, seein’s how I 
allowed to bring suit agin Eliakim Doak for 
trespass, an’ it won’t do to break my word 
now. Besides, if I don’t do something of the 
kind, there’s no tollin’ how far that man may 
dare to go for the sake of gettin’ his hands 
on you once more, which is what I’m goin’ to 
prevent. My plan can be talked over after 
we’ve settled down peaceably, so to speak, 
though it does really seem as if it was workin’ 
itself out with no help from me.” 

I don’t believe that the cap’en cares very 
much about the law, an’ I’m expectin’ he’ll 
keep on raisin’ a row till I just have to go 
back to the ' Sally D.,’ ” Sam said, with a long- 


42 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

drawn sigh, and Uncle Ben replied almost 
sharply : 

I’m allowin’ that he hasn’t cared much 
for the law back along, else he wouldn’t have 
dared to sell your home an’ put the money 
inter his own pocket; but it’ll go hard if I 
can’t bring him ’round to respectin’ what the 
court says shall be done. It seems as if I 
was goin’ back on all the principles I’ve held 
to by gettin’ inter law at my time of life ; but 
it’s too late to draw out now, for neither he 
nor any other man shall hector a boy same’s 
he’s been hectorin’ you.” 

Then Uncle Ben went into the shanty as 
if to make preparations for departure, while 
Sam and Tom stood watching the movements 
of the two men who could be seen moving 
about on the deck of the “ Sally D.,” and Tom 
finally asked : 

Who’s the other feller ? ” 

Rube Rowe; he’s a real good man, an’ 
has told me more than once that he wouldn’t 
sail in the ‘Sally D.’ if it wasn’t that Cap’en 
Doak pays him better wages than he could 
get on any other craft. You see, it ain’t easy 
to find decent fishermen who’ll sail with a 


War Declared 


43 


man like him/^ and he waved his hand in the 
direction of Captain Doak, so he has to give 
good money, or go without/' 

“ Would Rube Rowe do anything to hurt 
you? " 

“ Don't reckon he'd think there was anythin' 
wrong in draggin' me aboard the schooner, if 
the cap'en said to, 'cause he's my stepfather, 
an' a good many people believe I'm bound to 
hang right by him. If it hadn't been for 
Uncle Ben I'd never so much as thought of 
runnin' away, an' perhaps it would have been 
better if I hadn't started, 'cause he'll make it 
mighty warm for me if he ever gets me aboard 
the schooner." 

“ You'll be a softy if he does get a hold on 
you after all that's been done. I'd like to see 
the fisherman who could haul me away from 
this island if Uncle Ben had allowed I might 
stay with him. It's time your old schooner 
got under way." 

I'm afraid Cap'en Doak won't leave till 
he's had one more whack at me,'^ Sam re- 
plied sorrowfully, and then, turning abruptly, 
he made his way to the shanty that he might 
take counsel with Uncle Ben. 


CHAPTER IV 


A MATTER OF BUSINESS 

When the boys entered the shanty the old 
lobster catcher was putting on his oilskins, 
and Sam said in surprise : 

I thought you counted on goin' over to 
town, Uncle Ben ? ” 

That's what I've got in my mind, lad, 
seein's there don't seem to be anythin' else 
that's pressin' ; but I ain't reckonin' on leavin' 
while the ‘ Sally D.' is layin' here at anchor, 
for it would be much the same as invitin' 
Eliakim Doak to come ashore an' yank you 
off. But business is business. No matter how 
big a row we may have on hand the pots are 
to be hauled if we count on gettin' a livin', 
an' seein's how I've got three mouths to feed, 
it stands me in hand to look sharp after our 
bread an' butter." 

What shall Tom an* I be doin' while 
you're gone ? " 

Doin' ? Why, I was allowin' you'd bear 
a hand, same's decent lads oughter. If you 
44 


A Matter of Business 


45 


two have gone inter partnership with me, it 
kinder looks as if you was needin’ to get the 
hang of the ropes, so to speak.” 

“ Is Tom to stay here on Apple Island with 
us ? ” Sam asked in surprise and delight. 

‘‘ Where else can he stay ? ’Cordin’ to his 
story he ain’t never known any more of a 
home than you’ve had since your mother 
died, an’ seein’s how you hauled him ashore, 
it looks as if we was in duty bound to take 
care of him, though, of course, it’s for him to 
say if he wants to stay.” 

That’s what I want to do, if you’ll have 
me ! ” said Tom, who had overheard the con- 
versation as he entered the single room which 
served as kitchen, dining-room, bedchamber 
and parlor. “ I ain’t soft enough to allow 
you’ll keep me ’round jest so’s you’ll have 
somethin’ pretty to look at, so if you’ll 
kinder show me how it’s done. I’ll tackle my 
share of the work.” 

That’s the way I like to hear a lad talk,” 
Uncle Ben said approvingly. I don’t allow 
that I’m needin’ two mates, seein’s how the 
work ain’t rushin’ ; but since you’re both 
needin’ a home, why it stands to reason that 


46 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

you oughter help run things the best you 
know how. We’ll haul the pots, an’ before 
that’s been done I’m allowin’ Eliakim Doak 
will get the ^ Sally D.’ under way. If he 
does, there’ll be nothin’ to prevent my goin’ 
to town an’ findin’ out ’bout how I stand 
with the law when I set myself agin sich 
authority as a mighty poor stepfather has 
over a boy.” 

Then the old man, having put on his oil- 
skins, led the way out of the shanty toward 
the dory, which lay high up on the beach, and 
Tom said in a whisper : 

“ Tell me how you go to work haulin’ 
lobster-pots? I don’t want to make sich a 
bloomin’ chump of myself at the first go-off 
that your Uncle Ben won’t have me hangin’ 
’round, ’cause it strikes me that this is a 
mighty nice kind of a place in which to 
live.” 

You’ll see how it’s done when the first pot 
comes up, an’ after that you won’t have to 
ask any questions. All you an’ I have to do 
is row the dory, an’ I reckon you can keep up 
that end of the work if you could go out 
runnin’ trawls before daylight.” 


A Matter of Business 


47 


“ If that’s all he wants, I’ll pull the bottom 
out of the dory, an’ what’s more, do it alone.” 

It’ll be a long stretch before we get ’round 
to all the pots, so you needn’t jump to it so 
hard,” Sam replied with a smile, which died 
quickly away from his face as he heard the 
captain of the “ Sally D.” hailing Uncle Ben, 
for by this time the old fisherman had come 
on the beach directly opposite where the 
shabby schooner lay at anchor. 

Don’t be too brash, Ben Johnson, or you 
may find your neck so far inter a noose that 
you can’t easy get it out ag’in. It’s a serious 
matter to interfere ’twixt a lad an’ them as 
has authority over him, as you’ll come to 
know if you don’t go slow ! ” 

“ I reckon there’s little need for your 
cautionin’, Eliakim Doak,” Uncle Ben re- 
plied placidly. “ I’ve been turnin’ this ’ere 
thing over in my mind ever since William 
Mansfield told me how you’d been usin’ the 
boy. If you want to see what the law’s got 
to say ’bout it, that’ll jest suit me, ’cause I’m 
countin’ on knowin’ what Sammy’s rights are 
before we’re many days older. I’m no kith 
or kin to him, but count it my duty, if no- 


48 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

body else is willin^ to take up the matter, to 
see that he has what’s cornin’ to him in this 
world.” 

I’ll make you wish you’d never been 
born ! ” Captain Doak cried in a rage, and 
then, much to Sam’s relief of mind, he went 
into the Sally D.’s ” cabin very quickly, as 
if he had most important business there. 

Eliakim can bark right smart, but I 
reckon we needn’t have much fear of his 
bite,” Uncle Ben said, as he stood by the 
bow of the dory waiting for the boys to lend 
him a hand in launching her. 

Five minutes later, the old lobster catcher 
and his small family were afloat, heading, 
with Sam and Tom each pulling a pair of 
oars, toward the nearest tiny buoy which 
marked the location of the first pot to be 
hauled. 

Now, as a matter of fact, there isn’t any- 
thing particularly exciting in hauling on a 
long wet rope until the cage-like lobster-pot 
is brought to the surface ; but Tom was in- 
tensely interested in the operation so often 
repeated before the day’s work had come to 
an end. Perhaps it was because he felt a cer- 



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A Matter of Business 


49 


tain eagerness to know how great a catch 
would be taken, and, perhaps, he was anxious 
to master all the details in the shortest pos- 
sible space of time, so that he might be of 
real assistance to the old man who was offer- 
ing him what he never remembered of having 
before in his life — a home. 

When twenty or more pots had been hauled 
in, the marketable lobsters thrown into the 
dory, while the small ones were tossed over- 
board to grow a little more, and the pots baited 
again with fresh fish, Tom insisted on being 
allowed to do his full share of the work. 

It ainT moreen loafin^ to row from one 
buoy to another, an^ there’s no reason why I 
couldn’t bear a hand, now I’ve seen how it’s 
done,” he said eagerly, and after some faint 
protest. Uncle Ben took up the lad’s oars, as 
he said with a laugh : 

“ Have your own way, sonny, though the 
work is a bit heavier than you are countin’ 
on. If you two boys are reckonin’ on helpin’ 
me build up a family, I allow the sooner you 
break in at lobsterin’ the better. Sammy here 
knows what little there is to be knowed about 
it, an’ if you get inter the job in good shape 


50 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

there won’t be anythin’ for me to do ’cept 
dodder ’round ashore while you earn the 
livin’.” 

I wish that could be the way of it, Uncle 
Ben ! ” Sam exclaimed earnestly, and then 
the conversation came to an end, as Tom 
made his first effort to catch the mooring 
rope of a buoy with the short gaff while the 
dory was gliding swiftly past the small target. 

It is not strange that he failed at the first 
attempt, for it requires no little deftness with 
a gaff to “ hook on,” and it was necessary for 
the oarsmen to back the dory here and there 
until the lad had the rope in his hands. 

Well,” he would laugh, “ I didn’t make 
any great fist at it that time, for a fact ; but it 
can’t take sich a dreadful long time before I 
get the hang of it, an’ when I do, this part of 
the work shall be my job.” 

And Tom did “ break in ” even sooner than 
Uncle Ben expected. Before he had brought 
half a dozen pots to the surface it was as if he 
had had considerable experience in such tasks, 
and Uncle Ben said approvingly : 

I declare for it, Tom, you’re goin’ to be a 
keen hand at catchin’ lobsters ! You handle 


A Matter of Business 


51 


them pots easier than I could do it, an’ if so 
be I’m called on to stop at Southport over 
night, I’ll know that you an’ Sam can ’tend 
to the work as well as if I was here to do the 
bossin’.” 

Tom’s eyes glistened with pleasure because 
of the praise ; but Sam’s face lengthened per- 
ceptibly at the possibility that Uncle Ben 
might be away from the island more than a 
few hours. 

It was not yet two o’clock in the afternoon 
when all the pots had been hauled, emptied, 
re-baited and set again. The catch, consisting 
of twenty-two marketable lobsters, was thrown 
into the floating cage, called by the fishermen 
a “ car,” and Uncle Ben and his family were 
ashore once more. 

Now, if you lads will lend a hand at 
launchin’ the keel-boat I’ll get under way for 
Southport,” the old man said as he pulled off* 
his oilskins by way of dressing ” for the 
voyage. I’ve got a fair wind across ; but if 
so be it hasn’t shifted long ’bout sunset, I’ll 
stop over night with William Mansfield, 
rather than tackle the job of rowin’ a heavy 
boat so far,” 


52 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

But what about Cap^eii Doak ? ’’ Sam 
asked, thinking of his stepfather for the first 
time since Tom had begun the work of break- 
ing in at the work of lobster catching. Then 
he looked quickly around, but the Sally 
no longer remained at anchor in the cove. 

“ Eliakim has made up his mind that it 
won’t be safe for him to have any truck with 
the law after skinnin’ you out of your mother’s 
house, an’ I reckon he won’t show his head 
on Apple Island ag’in, ’specially after he hears 
’bout what I’ve done — an’ you can make up 
your mind that everybody in Southport will 
go out of their way to let him know I’ve been 
talkin’ with the ’Squire, as I count on doin’ 
before you see me ag’in.” 

“ But suppose he should come back to hunt 
for me ? ” and now Sam’s fears arose so high 
that it was with difficulty he could control his 
voice sufficiently to speak in an ordinary tone. 

There’s little chance he’ll put back right 
away,” Uncle Ben replied without seeming 
to observe the lad’s show of fear. He’s 
bound to do a little somethin’ in the way of 
fishin’, else how can he pay Rube Rowe’s 
wages ? I’m allowin’ we shan’t see him under 


A Matter of Business 


53 


three or four days, an’ by that time I’ll have 
your business fixed up so tight that he can’t 
turn a hair. Leastways, it’s ’bout the same as 
certain that he won’t get under way an’ come 
back to anchorage all in the same half day, so 
we can count on bein’ rid of him while I’m 
away. Better catch a mess of cunners for 
supper, an’ if so be that you’re willin’, tidy up 
the shanty a bit, for I’ve been mighty slack in 
my housekeepin’ this past week.” 

Then, much as if eager to put an end to 
any further conversation regarding Captain 
Doak, Uncle Ben set about launching the 
keel-boat, and within a very few minutes after 
she was afloat he was sailing away from Apple 
Island in the direction of Southport. 

Sam and Tom stood on the beach watching 
this kindly-hearted old man who had given 
them a home until he appeared to be hardly 
more than a tiny blot in the distance, and 
then Sam said, as he searched here and there 
with his eyes, as if fearing the Sally D.” had 
already hove in sight : 

“ It would be mighty tough on me if Cap’en 
Doak should come back ’twixt now an’ sun- 
set ! ” 


54 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

I’m not so certain of that,” Tom said 
stoutly. He ain’t more’n any other man, 
an’ it strikes me we’d be mighty poor kind of 
boys if we couldn’t hold our own on this 
island. I wouldn’t be afraid if your Cap’en 
Doak an’ his Rube Rowe both come ashore at 
the same time, for with that buoy I had when 
he was here before I could make a pretty good 
play at keepin’ ’em at a distance for quite a 
spell.” 

But you couldn’t stand up swingin’ a 
buoy ’round your head all night,” Sam sug- 
gested mournfully, and then as he thought 
of Tom’s attempting to perform such a feat 
during all the hours of darkness he broke 
into a hearty laugh, so comical was the pic- 
ture in his mind. 

'' When you get through havin’ sich a good 
time I reckon we’d better have a whack at 
cleanin’ up the shanty ’cordin’ to your Uncle 
Ben’s orders,” Tom said curtly, and without 
further delay the task was begun, although a 
careful housewife would have said they were 
making no improvement in the apartment. 

When the shanty was, in their eyes, as 
cleanly and orderly as it could be made, Sam 


A Matter of Business 


55 


overhauled Uncle Ben^s stock of fishing-lines, 
and during the half hour that followed they 
caught cunners and skinned them, until they 
had ready for the frying-pan as many as half 
a dozen hungry boys could have eaten. 

^^V\l cook the supper if you’ll bring up 
from the beach wood enough to keep the fire 
going,” Sam said, and from that time until a 
few minutes before sunset they enjoyed them- 
selves as thoroughly as if they had but lately 
left the most pleasant homes in the land to 
spend a few days in pleasure on Apple Island. 

They ate their supper and the shanty was 
once more set to rights. Near the door was a 
store of driftwood sufficient to keep a fire 
going many days, and the two had seated 
themselves on the cliff which jutted out above 
the roof of Uncle Ben’s home to discuss the 
future, for Tom insisted on knowing why the 
old lobster catcher was willing to burden him- 
self with two boys who had no legal claim on 
him. 

Sam had begun to answer the questions 
by telling what he knew concerning the old 
man, when far away in the distance, directly 
in the golden pathway formed by the rays of 


56 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the setting sun, appeared the outlines of a 
vessel. 

“ That’s the ‘ Sally D. M ” Sam cried in alarm. 
“ Cap’en Doak is cornin’ here after me, just as 
I was afraid he would ! ” 

‘‘ How do you know that is his schooner? ” 
“ There ain’t another vessel sailin’ out of 
Southport that has a topmast like the 
^ Sally D.’ What am I to do, oh, what am 
I to do ? ” 


CHAPTER V 


AN UNWELCOME VISITOR 

Tom was apparently lost in surprise because 
the lad who had shown so much bravery by 
saving the life of a stranger at imminent risk 
of his own was nearly overcome by terror 
simply through seeing in the far distance that 
vessel on which he knew was his stepfather. 

He looked alternately at Sam and the 
“ Sally D./’ as if fancying that somewhere 
in the middle distance he might see that 
which would give him a clue to what was 
really a riddle, and failing in making out 
more than the wide expanse of restless waters, 
he turned toward his friend, asking impa- 
tiently : 

What^s comin^ over you so bad ? S^pose 
that vessel is the ^ Sally D.,^ what^s the use of 
worryin^ ? 

Cap'en Doak is comin^ ashore after me. 
He must have sailed around the island to 
wait till he saw Uncle Ben headin^ for South- 
57 


58 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

port, an* he could get his hands on me with- 
out much trouble. What’ll I do ? Oh, what’ll 
I do ? ” 

“ Look here, Sam ! ” Tom cried impatiently. 
“ If you’re willin’ to stand here on the beach 
when your stepfather lands, in case that 
vessel is the ^ Sally D.,’ an’ in case he’s cornin’ 
back after you, then I allow he might have a 
chance of pickin’ you up without very much 
bother ; but what’s to hinder your makin’ 
things lively for him?” 

“ What do you mean ? ” Sam asked help- 
lessly, and it really seemed as if he had lost 
his wits in the sudden attack of terror which 
beset him so sorely. 

Mean ? Can’t you see that the cap’en of 
that ’ere schooner would have a mighty rough 
time gettin’ his hands on you, if it was a case 
of huntin’ for what he wanted? This ain’t 
any toy island, an’ I’d be willin’ to bet great 
big dollars that there ain’t the man livin’ 
who could get hold of me if I wanted to keep 
out of his way I What’s to hinder our layin’ 
low in the bushes, if so be he comes ashore ? 
I reckon he would be a good long day runnin’ 
us down, an’ before that happened your Uncle 


An Unwelcome Visitor 59 

Ben would be back to take a hand in the 
scrimmage ! 

The look of distress slowly died away from 
Sam^s face as his companion spoke. He had 
been so overcome by terror at seeing the 
“ Sally D.” that there was no room in his 
mind for any thought save what Captain 
Doak would do if it was possible for him to 
work his will, but now he began to realize 
that he was showing himself very much of a 
coward. 

“ Say, that’s so ! You must think I’m a 
regular baby ! ” he said with a faint attempt 
at a smile. Just for a minute it seemed as if 
I was bound to stand right here waitin’ till 
Cap’en Doak came ashore. I guess we'll give 
him a good chance to hunt for us.” 

That’s the way to talk,” Tom said ap- 
provingly. We’ll give him a run for his 
money, an’ if he gets his hands on either of 
us I’m allowin’ it’ll be ’cause we’ve lost our 
heads. There’s no reason why we should 
stay up here on the rocks where he’ll see us, 
so let’s slip down the other side where we’ll 
be out of the way an’ can see what he counts 
on doin’.” 


6o The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Why not go straight back into the bushes 
an^ find a hidin’-place? 

’Cause there’s no need of it yet a while. 
It wouldn’t be any very big job to keep ahead 
of him, with anythin’ decent in the way of a 
start, an’ I want to see how far he dares jump 
after your Uncle Ben has told him that he’s 
goin’ to law ’bout it.” 

Sam had no desire to linger in the vicinity. 
So great was his fear of Captain Doak that 
he would gladly have put to sea in the dory 
rather than take the slight chance of being 
captured on the island. But, having once 
shown himself to be a veritable coward so far 
as an encounter with the commander of the 
Sally D.” was concerned, he shrank from 
any further display of fear. 

Therefore it was that the boys crouched 
behind the brow of the cliff, where a full view 
of the cove could be had, watching the shabby 
schooner as she crept nearer and nearer to the 
land, and Sam found it really difficult to pre- 
vent a tremor of fear from being apparent in 
his voice as he replied to Tom’s questions 
regarding Uncle Ben. 

The good people of Southport, where Sam 


An Unwelcome Visitor 6i 

had been born, knew that Benjamin Johnson 
was a native of the town, and even as a young 
man had been known as an odd stick, who, 
when his father and mother died, earned suf- 
ficient to make a home for his two sisters by 
his labor as a fisherman. When the young 
women were married, Ben leased Apple Island, 
and for many years had worked industriously ; 
it was generally believed he had saved con- 
siderable money, and there were many who, 
not knowing him of whom they spoke, called 
the lobster catcher a miser. 

He^s been mighty good to me since mother 
died,^^ Sam said when Tom had come to an 
end of his questions, an’ if he can make 
Cap’en Doak behave himself so’s Fll dare to 
show my head. I’ll be in great luck livin’ here 
with him.” 

'' Do you reckon he’ll let me stay, too ? ” 
Tom asked anxiously. 

He has just the same as said you could, 
an’ all we’ve got to do in order to have as 
good a home as any fellow could ask for, is to 
jump right inter the work, same’s you’ve be- 
gun. It’s a big lot of help to Uncle Ben, now 
that he’s gettin’ kinder old, to have some- 


62 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

body pull the pots, an' between the two of us 
we oughter tend to the business without his 
raisin' a finger." 

You can bet I'll do my part of it all right ; 
but perhaps he ain't countin' on stayin' here 
very long." 

“ What do you mean ? " Sam asked in alarm. 

That plan of his that he keeps tellin' about 
may have somethin' to do with leavin' the 
island." 

Such a suggestion as this would have caused 
Sam no slight anxiety at any other time, for 
the possibility that Uncle Ben's “ plan," what- 
ever it might be, would involve his abandon- 
ing Apple Island had never occurred to the 
lad until this moment. Just now, however, 
while the Sally D." was slowly but surely 
approaching the anchorage, he could give lit- 
tle heed to anything save the fear that Captain 
Doak might succeed in getting hold of him 
once more. 

Soon the lads could see the two men clearly, 
and Sam knew only too well that his step- 
father was in a towering rage. 

He'll use up more'n one rope's end on me 
if he gets the chance I " the IM said with an 


An Unwelcome Visitor 63 

indrawing of the breath, and his compan- 
ion, trying to speak in a careless tone, re- 
plied : 

“ Oh, he’ll have a mighty tough time get- 
tin’ near enough to make much trouble, no 
matter how long he stays. We’ll wait here 
till we see what his game is, for there won’t 
be any sense in runnin’ ’round very lively be- 
fore there’s need for it.” 

The lads were not kept in suspense many mo- 
ments. Within a quarter hour the ‘‘ Sally D.” 
was inside the cove; Rube Rowe let the 
anchor go with a rush, the sails were hauled 
down, but not furled, and with everything on 
the deck at sixes and sevens. Captain Doak 
jumped into the dory which was towing along- 
side, shouting impatiently to his solitary 
sailor : 

Bear a hand lively. Rube, for I ain’t 
countin’ on wastin’ very much time over this 
job ! ” 

Lookin’ for a boy on this ’ere island, an’ 
the sun within half an hour of settin’, is goin’ 
to be a good deal like huntin’ for a needle in 
a haystack,” Mr. Rowe grumbled as he 
obeyed orders, and he was hardly more than 


64 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

in the boat before the angry captain had be- 
gun to row her to the shore. 

We^ll go straight across the island, for if 
Ben hasn^t taken him along the cub is sure to 
get as far away as possible, an^ once we get our 
hands on him, it’s a case of goin’ aboard 
lively ; I’ve spent too much time on him al- 
ready.” 

“ I ain’t certain as the law will uphold us 
in takin’ him by force, even if you are his 
stepfather,” the sailor replied fretfully, and his 
employer cried angrily : 

“ Do what I tell you, an’ I’ll look after the 
law part of it. Don’t be afraid of knockin’ 
him down if you find that he can run too fast. 
Now bear to the east’ard an’ I’ll tackle the 
other end of the island ; there’s little chance 
he can give both of us the slip.” 

Having thus given his orders. Captain Doak 
set off at a rapid pace, passing within twenty 
yards of where the lads were cowering behind 
the jutting rocks of the cliff, and Tom whis- 
pered when the angry man was so far away 
that there could be no danger his words might 
be overheard : 

** Now you see that it was best to stay right 


An Unwelcome Visitor 65 

here ; they don’t count on our hangin’ ’round 
near the cove, an’ this is as good a place as we 
could find. I haven’t had to sneak away 
time an’ time ag’in from Mother Sharkey with- 
out gettin’ a mighty good idea of how the 
trick can be turned.” 

During the next thirty minutes the boys re- 
mained silent but on the alert, one watching 
for Captain Doak, and the other for Rube 
Rowe, and the shadows of evening were 
lengthening before either of the men put in 
an appearance. Then they could be seen 
coming directly toward the shanty, walking 
side by side, and Tom whispered trium- 
phantly : 

They’ve given it up as a bad job, so all 
we’ve got to do is lay low here till they look 
inside the shanty, for it ain’t likely they’ll 
leave without openin’ the door.” 

Hadn’t we better run while we’ve got a 
chance ? ” Sam asked tremulously. 

** Not a bit of it. They’d be sure to sight 
us, but if we can keep our distance half an 
hour longer, it’ll be so dark that they can’t 
see an inch before their noses.” 

Sam literally flattened himself against the 


66 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

cliff, in his effort to hide, and hardly dared to 
breathe when the two men approached the 
shanty directly beneath him. 

“If it wasn’t so late I’d have that miserable 
cub out of this ! ” Captain Doak cried angrily 
as he kicked open the door of Uncle Ben’s 
home, “ an’ even as it is he hasn’t given me 
the slip, for the ^ Sally ’ shall stay where she 
is till I’ve put him aboard.” 

“ If that’s the way you’re feelin’, I’m al- 
lowin’ that we won’t wet another line this 
season,” Rube Rowe said with a laugh which 
caused Captain Doak to turn with upraised 
hand as if to strike a blow, and the sailor 
cried warningly as he put himself in a posture 
of defense : 

“ None of that, Eliakim, or you an’ I’ll part 
company mighty sudden ! I ain’t so fond of 
the ‘ Sally D.,’ an’ it wouldn’t take much of 
your funny business to give me my discharge.” 

“ Don’t talk crazy, Rube ! What we’re after 
is that young cub, an’ this ain’t the time to 
cut up rough.” 

“ You’re doin’ the rough part of it, ’cordin’ 
to my way of thinkin’, an’ I want you to un- 
derstand that it won’t take much to put me 


An Unwelcome Visitor 67 

out of the job altogether. I ain’t so certain 
that you’ve got the law on your side, an’ then 
ag’in, I’ve allers felt sorry for the little chap, 
’cause there’s no denyin’ but that you’ve led 
him the toughest kind of a life, an’ he savin’ 
you the wages of a cook.” 

“ Hold your tongue ! I know more ’bout 
law than that drivelin’ old lobster catcher can 
tell me, so don’t get the idee that I’m leadin’ 
you inter any trouble. The boy is my step- 
son, an’ he’s bound to dance to my pipin’ till 
he’s twenty-one, or I’ll know the reason why. 
Got any matches ? ” 

** What do you want of ’em ? ” 

** I’m goin’ to set this shack on fire. Ben 
Johnson shall be made to understand what it 
means to buck agin me. If he was here, I’d 
give him a lesson that wouldn’t soon be for- 
got ; but seein’s he ain’t. I’ll let him have a 
taste of what’s cornin’.” 

If I had any matches you shouldn’t have 
’em to use on that shanty ! ” Rube Rowe cried 
angrily. ** I know what it means to set a 
house on fire I ” 

“ This ain’t a house, you bloomin’ idjut ; it’s 
nothin’ but a fisherman’s shanty, an’ the law 


68 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

won’t be troubled ’bout it. Besides who’s to 
know we did the job, if we get under way 
lively — I can come back after Sam to-morrow.” 

‘‘You’ll get no matches from me,” Rube 
growled as he walked rapidly up the shore, 
and Captain Doak, seemingly incited to yet 
greater anger by the opposition of his “ crew,” 
said hoarsely as he ran toward the “ Sally D.’s ” 
boat : 

“ I’ll go aboard an’ get what I want. When 
that’s been done, you an’ I’ll have a settle- 
ment ! ” 

“ I reckon here’s where we’ve got our work 
cut out for us,” Tom whispered as he crept 
slowly to the top of the cliff. “ That cap’en 
of yours won’t set any shanty afire while I’ve 
got life enough to roll a lot of these rocks down 
on his head I ” 


CHAPTER VI 


A PITCHED BATTLE 

In strict justice to Sam Cushing it must be 
set down that he was not a coward in any 
sense of the word, and certainly he proved 
himself to be brave when he saved the life of 
Tom Falonna at risk of his own, yet the idea 
of opposing the commander of the ** Sally 
to the extent of provoking a personal encoun- 
ter frightened him. More than once since 
the death of his mother had he attempted to 
resist when his stepfather was unusually cruel, 
and on each occasion had he suffered severely. 

Therefore, it was that Tom^s preparations to 
defend Uncle Tom^s shanty against Captain 
Doak seemed to him an extra hazardous un- 
dertaking, more particularly since the chances 
of his being captured by his angry stepfather 
would, apparently, be increased, and, follow- 
ing Tom up the side of the cliff, he whispered 
entreatingly : 

Don't get us both into the worst kind of 
a muss ! The cap'en an' Rube Rowe can 
69 


70 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

surely get the best of us if it comes to a fight, 
an' then I'll be carried off on board the 
‘Sally'!" 

“ I ain't countin' on lettin' that villain burn 
the only home your Uncle Ben has got, 
'specially while there are so many rocks layin' 
'round here loose," Tom replied grimly, as 
he began gathering missiles where they would 
be ready for use. “ 'Cordin' to what he said, 
Rube Rowe ain't likely to take much of a 
hand in this 'ere row, 'cause he's got sense 
enough to know that settin' a man's house on 
fire is a mighty dangerous thing to do." 

“ He may not help start a fire, but he's 
bound to lend a hand if Cap'en Doak gets inter 
a row with us I " 

“ Then it'll be so much the worse for him, 
'cause I'm goin' to make a mighty big try at 
keepin' that villain at his distance, an' if I 
can get one crack at him he'll be down an' out 
for quite a spell. There he goes for matches, 
an' I reckon he's too wild by this time to 
really know what kind of a sore he's breedin' 
for himself. Folks get sent to jail for what 
he's aimin' to do " 


“ Then he'd be out of my way for good an' 


A Pitched Battle 


7 » 

all,” Sam said hopefully, and Tom replied in 
a tone of reproach : 

Yes, you^d be all right ; but your Uncle 
Ben wouldn^t have any shanty to live in, an^ 
then what about our plan of stoppin' here with 
him?^^ 

Sam had no reply to make ; he was not a 
little ashamed at having thought only of him- 
self, and, as Tom had stated the case, he would 
be injured as much as benefited by such dis- 
posal of his stepfather as he had suggested. 

The situation not only alarmed but per- 
plexed him, and, not knowing what else to do, 
he watched the movements of Captain Doak, 
who could be seen only as a dark smudge 
against the lighter sky. The commander of 
the Sally D.’^ w^as standing erect in the dory 
as he pushed at the oars with a force and haste 
which told of the angry storm that was raging 
in his mind, and while Tom made ready his 
ammunition for the battle which was evi- 
dently so near at hand, Sam announced to 
him the movements of the man who was eager 
to work so much mischief. 

“ He’s in a terrible hurry ; perhaps because 
he’s afraid Uncle Ben will come back before 


72 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

he can start the fire. Now he's alongside the 
schooner, an' jumpin' aboard. My, my I but 
ain't he movin' spry ! " 

He'll jump 'round worse'n ever if he gets 
one of these rocks side of his head," Tom re- 
plied as he ranged the missiles in front of him 
with exceeding care. 

^*Now he's cornin' out of the cabin, an' I 
s'pose he's got matches enough to set the whole 
island on fire. See him jump inter the dory I 
I tell you, Tom, he's mighty ugly by this 
time ! " 

I ain't feelin' much like a lamb myself," 
Master Falonna said placidly as he brought up 
from the foot of the cliff yet more rocks. I 
reckon I've got enough here to keep him at 
his distance quite a spell." 

He's cornin' ashore — now he's on the 
beach I Look out for yourself! " 

Get up here where you can take a hand 
in this business 1 I'm countin' you'll do your 
share 1 " 

** Of course I will 1 " Sam cried. If the bat- 
tle had to come, he was quite as determined 
as his friend to prevent any mischief being 
done to Uncle Ben's property. 


A Pitched Battle 


73 


The lad had not yet gained a position by 
Tom^s side when Captain Doak could be heard 
shouting to the crew ” of the Sally ” : 

Hi ! Rube I Come up here, you skulker, 
an’ see what Eliakim Doak can do to them 
who try to tread on his corns I ” 

From far away in the distance came the 
reply : 

I ain’t cornin’ I I hired with you for a 
season’s fishin’, an’ when you go to runnin’ 
your head inter jail tricks, I don’t train in 
any of it I ” 

You’re a coward, that’s what you are ! ” 
the angry fisherman cried, and the boys on 
the cliff could see him coming toward them 
swiftly. “ If you’re ’fraid of your own shadder, 
stand by to go aboard, for we’ll weigh anchor 
as soon as this job is finished ! ” 

Captain Doak hardly more than ceased 
speaking when he had come near the shanty ; 
but before he could enter it, a warning cry 
sounded from the cliff, and a huge rock rolled 
swiftly toward him. 

Get back there, an’ be lively ’bout it,” 
Tom cried, ‘^else you’ll stand a chance of 
havin’ your head broke ! There won’t be any 


74 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

funny business on this ^ere island to-night, 
^less somebody gets hurt pretty bad ! ” 

“Who's that ?” Captain Doak asked in a 
rage, stepping back in order that he might 
have a view of the top of the cliff, and at the 
same instant a missile, smaller than the first, 
grazed his arm, causing him to leap aside very 
suddenly. 

“ Get back where you belong, 'less you 
wanter be knocked out of time ! " Tom 
shouted, and, sheltering himself as much as 
possible behind a projecting portion of the 
cliff, the commander of the “ Sally D.” cried 
in a voice hoarse with rage : 

“ ITl flog you within an inch of your life, 
you miserable shirker. Come down here, Sam, 
or ril mark you with a rope's end as you've 
never been marked before ! " 

“ I reckon you won't do much floggin' or 
markin' yet a while," Tom replied stoutly, 
standing with a missile in either hand, ready 
to fire a shot whenever Captain Doak was so 
incautious as to give him an opportunity. 
“ Go aboard your schooner, 'less you're achin' 
to be 'bout the same as killed, for if we get a 
fair whack at your precious body it ain't 


A Pitched Battle 


75 

likely you’ll be very spry for some time to 
come ! ” 

** Rube ! Rube Rowe I Get around on the 
top of the cliff an’ pitch them cubs down 1 ” 

Do it yourself, if it’s got to be done. I 
didn’t ship with you for a pirate ! ” was the reply 
from the beach, and Tom added mockingly : 

“ I reckon you’ll have to tackle the job your- 
self, cap’en, an’ if you don’t get all that’s 
cornin’ to you before it’s over. I’m way off my 
base. We’ve got plenty of rocks handy.” 

While one might have counted twenty, 
Captain Doak remained silent and motion- 
less, and then a tiny spark of light could be 
seen near where he crouched, which caused 
Tom to whisper : 

He’s settin’ fire to the rubbish, hopin’ the 
flames will creep over to the shanty, an’ per- 
haps they may, for the wind is settin’ this 
way. If we’d only thought to bring up a 
bucket of water, it would be easy to put an end 
to his fun I ” 

There are a couple of buckets behind the 
shed. If I could get down without his seein’ 
me, it wouldn’t take long to have ’em up 
here.” 


76 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Go ahead an^ get ^em I ” Tom whispered 
excitedly. I'll see to it that he don’t get 
out from behind the rocks while you’re 
gone ! ” 

Understanding that there was no time to be 
wasted if he would carry out the plan success- 
fully, Sam made his way softly down the cliff, 
and in the meanwhile Tom watched anxiously 
the tiny threads of flame which began to curl 
up from amid the dried grass, seaweed and 
driftwood, and were fanned by the wind 
directly toward the shanty. 

“ I’ll smoke you out, you cubs ! ” Captain 
Doak cried triumphantly as he pushed the 
blazing fragments forward with a short stick. 

It won’t be many minutes before you’ll be 
glad to make a change of quarters, an’ then 
will come my time ! ” 

At that moment Sam came to the top of the 
cliff with the two buckets, each more than 
half full of sea water, and, seizing one, Tom 
waited until Captain Doak leaned forward to 
put more fuel on the rapidly increasing fire, 
when he threw the contents with rare good 
aim. 

The water struck the commander of the 


A Pitched Battle 


77 


** Sally D/’ full in the face, causing him to leap 
backward sputtering and choking, while a good 
deal of the liquid fell on the flames. The 
second bucket was emptied in the same man- 
ner immediately afterward, and all danger of 
mischief was at an end for the time being. 

It would be difiicult to describe clearly the 
exhibition of rage which the commander of 
the ** Sally gave on being thus baffled by 
two lads. He stormed at Sam because the lad 
had dared to run away from the schooner ; at 
Tom for taking part in a quarrel which was 
none of his, and at Rube Rowe for “ skulking 
on the beach when his employer was in need 
of his services. 

The crew of the Sally D.” remained 
silent under the torrent of abuse during a few 
seconds, and then boldly announced his deter- 
mination : 

^*Vm nothin' but a common, every-day flsh- 
erman, but I allow to be somewhere nigh 
honest. I shipped with you for a summer's 
work, an' never allowed to go 'round burnin' 
houses. If you give me one more word of 
abuse. I'll turn to an' help the boys so far as 
I'm able 


78 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

You^ll finish out the season aboard the 
^ Sally D./ or you’ll never see a cent of 
wages ! ” Captain Doak cried, the words sound- 
ing hoarse and indistinct because of his rage. 

“ I’m allowin’ that if I should go inter court 
with the story of why we parted company 
before the season ended, I’d be able to collect 
all you owe me, if so be you’ve got property 
enough left to be attached by the sheriff ; so I 
ain’t worryin’ ’bout that part of it.” 

Having thus defined his position. Rube 
Rowe, as the boys could see, set about launch- 
ing the Sally’s” dory, apparently making 
ready to go on board, and Captain Doak, seem- 
ingly forgetting the enemy on the cliff, sprang 
out from his hiding-place as if to try conclu- 
sions with his mutinous ^‘crew.” 

Now’s our chance ! ” Tom whispered as he 
threw two rocks with good aim, and an instant 
later the commander of the “ Sally D.” meas- 
ured his length on the sand, evidently having 
been struck by one or both of the missiles. 

“ What if we have killed him ? ” Sam cried 
in a tone of fear when his stepfather made no 
effort to rise to his feet, and Tom replied 
savagely : 


A Pitched Battle 


79 


“ I hope we have hurt him enough to put 
some sense in him ; but you’ll see him jumpin’ 
’round in a minute.” 

The lad spoke in a loud tone, and must 
have been heard by the captain, for he 
scrambled to his feet with all haste, running 
toward the dory as he cried shrilly : 

I’ll shoot you boys if I have to spend a 
week on this bloomin’ island ! ” 

“ Has he a gun ? ” Tom asked, as he shel- 
tered himself behind the top of the cliff once 
more, and Sam replied with a laugh : 

“ There is one bangin’ up in the cabin ; but 
I’ve heard him say that it would do more 
harm to the fellow who fired it than to what- 
ever it was aimed at.” 

I don’t believe he’ll dare show himself 
near enough to shoot ; but if he does I’ll take 
good care that the next rock hurts him more. 
That fire ain’t quite out yet, an’ we’d better 
be gettin’ more water while he’s goin’ 
aboard. Stay here on watch, an’ I’ll ’tend to 
that part of it.” 

Sam was not eager for the task of defending 
the cliff, therefore, before his friend could say 
anything more, he seized the bucket, running 


8o The Cruise of the Sally D. 

boldly down the rocky incline, careless as to 
whether he might be seen. 

When he returned with the water, Tom 
threw it on the smoldering rubbish, and after 
assuring himself that the last spark had been 
extinguished, said in the tone of one giving 
valuable information : 

‘‘ Your bloomin^ cap^en has gone aboard, 
an^ taken the sailor with him. I reckon you^d 
better get a little more water, an' then we'll 
kinder fix up 'bout what we shall do if he 
really tries to shoot us, though I don't believe 
he can make any great fist at it with the kind 
of gun you say he's got." 


CHAPTER VII 

UNCLE ben’s AERIVAL 

Sam filled both buckets with sea water and 
carried them to the top of the cliflP, where 
they could conveniently be got at in case the 
commander of the ‘‘ Sally D.” made another 
attempt to burn the shanty, and, this done, 
there was nothing more to be done in the way 
of defense. 

Now that he had time to consider the situa- 
tion more calmly, and while they were wait- 
ing for Captain Doak to reappear, Tom began 
to have some misgivings regarding their 
ability to hold possession of the island against 
a man armed with a deadly weapon. 

Are you certain that gun of his ain’t in 
condition ? ” he asked anxiously, and Sam 
replied with a laugh, as if there was no ques- 
tion whatsoever in his mind : 

I heard the cap’en say it had been loaded 
more’n two years, an’ in that time, for it has 
been bangin’ up in the ^ Sally’s ’ cabin all the 
81 


82 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

while, it stands to reason it must have gath- 
ered considerable rust. Rube Rowe said he’d 
rather stand in front than behind it, in case 
anybody was crazy enough to pull the trig- 
ger.” 

“ Then I reckon it’s all right,” Tom said 
with a sigh of relief. I ain’t backin’ down 
any when it comes to stoppin’ that bloomin’ 
fisherman from burnin’ your Uncle Ben’s 
shanty ; but I ain’t had any too much expe- 
rience in fightin’ with guns. When I lived 
with Mother Sharkey it was only a case of 
dodgin’ anythin’ she could lay her hands on, 
an’ I’m way up on tricks like that, ’cause you 
see I had to be mighty spry or catch it hot ; 
but ” 

“.There comes Cap’en Doak, an’ he’s got the 
gun with him ! ” Sam cried, for he could make 
out, in the gloom, the outlines of a man 
emerging from the cabin of the schooner. 
“ P’rhaps he’s jest crazy-mad enough to fire off* 
the thing without stoppin’ to think of the 
rust!” 

“ I don’t see but that we’ll have to take our 
chances on it, ’cause it’s too late to make a 
move now. Get a couple of rocks ready, an’ 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 83 

when I say the word let ^em drive the best you 
know how. We’re bound to do him all the 
damage we can. He started all this, and it’s 
his fault if he gets hurt.” 

Sam armed himself as his companion had 
suggested, but at the same time he was far 
from feeling comfortable in mind. It was to 
him a very serious matter, this attempting to 
work injury to a human being, and the idea 
came into his mind that he would be solely 
responsible for whatever might happen, 
because, by at once giving himself up to his 
stepfather, he could put an end to further 
trouble on the island, but in such case he 
would receive most terrible punishment. 

^^Look here, Tom,” he said in a tearful tone 
as he allowed the rocks to drop from his 
hands, ** this row wouldn’t have come off if 
I hadn’t run away from the schooner, an’ I 
can stop it all now by goin’ aboard the 
* Sally ’ an’ takin’ what the cap’en sees fit to 
deal out in the way of a thumpin’. I’m goin’ 
to give in, an’ then there won’t be any danger 
Uncle Ben’s shanty will be burned.” 

“ You ain’t goin’ to do any sich foolish 
thing I ” Tom cried, excitedly. '' An’ what’s 


84 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

more, your Uncle Ben's shanty won't be 
burned while there are plenty of rocks near by I 
S'pose you hadn't run away, where'd I be 
now ? Swashin' 'round off the shore with the 
fish havin' a Thanksgivin' dinner, an' on ac- 
count of that I'm bound to hold up the biggest 
end of this 'ere scrimmage. You won't go 
aboard the schooner to-night, not if I have to 
hold you on this cliff with one hand while I 
fight the cap'en with the other. Here comes 
the old pirate, so get busy ! " 

Captain Doak had lost no time in coming 
ashore after getting possession of his weapon, 
and as Tom spoke he was advancing rapidly 
toward the shanty, apparently confident of 
speedily reducing the defenders to subjec- 
tion. 

“ Hold on there ! You've come far enough 1 " 
Master Falonna cried when the angry captain 
was a hundred feet away. The next time we 
knock you down it won't be so easy to get up I " 
I'll shoot you loafers full of holes 1 " the 
commander of the “ Sally D." cried, the tremor 
of his voice telling that he was almost beside 
himself with rage ; but to Tom's relief, he took 
good care to remain at a respectful distance 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 85 

from the foot of the cliff. Vm willin’ to give 
you one chance more, an’ if you ain’t wise 
enough to take it, there’s goin’ to be a whole 
lot of trouble on this island. Let that worth- 
less Sam go aboard the ^ Sally ’ this minute, 
an’ I’ll get the schooner under way in a jiffy. 
If he ” 

Never mind ’bout the rest of it, mister, 
’cause Sam’s goin’ to stay right where he is, 
’less we have ter come down an’ wipe the earth 
up with you. I reckon you’re right when you 
say there’s goin’ to be trouble ; but you’re the 
one what’ll have it ! ” 

For reply Captain Doak raised the gun as 
if to take aim, and Tom whispered ex- 
citedly : 

He’s goin’ to shoot ! Let him have it I ” 
At the same instant he suited the action to 
the words ; four missiles came skimming down 
the cliff, one of them striking the rusty gun 
within an inch of the captain’s face, and an- 
other hitting the commander of the “ Sally D.” 
on the left leg with a thud that could be dis- 
tinctly heard. 

The ancient weapon was knocked from the 
captain’s hands, or fell when he grasped the 


86 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

injured limb as if in greatest distress, and then 
came from his lips a regular torrent of abuse 
and threats. 

I don’t allow you’re doin’ us any damage 
by usin’ your tongue so much ; but at the same 
time I ain’t willin’ to stand here doin’ nothin’ 
while you’re shootin’ your mouth off at sich a 
rate,” Tom said threateningly, as he armed 
himself with more rocks. Get on down to- 
ward the beach, or I’ll try my hand at bruisin’ 
your other leg I ” 

To the surprise of both the boys, Captain 
Doak hastily obeyed this command, hobbling 
off as if it caused him keenest pain to use the 
injured member, but at the same time taking 
good care not to linger within range of those 
whom he had attempted to bully. 

“ What do you think of that ? ” Tom cried 
in astonishment as he watched the commander 
of the Sally D.” hurrying to gain the beach. 

He has gone off to try some other game, 
an’ when he comes again we’ll get it hotter,” 
Sam whispered timidly, and Tom replied 
scornfully, almost as if disappointed because 
the battle had been ended so suddenly : 

Unless he puts up somethin’ hotter we’ve 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 87 

wasted our time by luggin^ up so many rocks. 
He's nothin' but a great big bully, that's what 
he is, an' the minute things ain't runnin' his 
way he's ready to cry baby. I'm goin' to get 
that gun ! " 

“ Don't I Don't leave the cliflT, or he'll 
serve you out terrible ! " Sam cried, trying to 
prevent his companion from scrambling down 
the rocky descent, but Tom pushed him aside 
as he said disdainfully : 

It’ll be a cold day when he uses me so 
very terrible, the big bag of wind 1 " and down 
he ran at full speed. Captain Doak apparently 
giving no heed as the lad captured the rusty 
gun. 

In less than sixty seconds Tom was on the 
top of the cliff again, brandishing his trophy 
as he shouted to the commander of the 
schooner who, seated on the sand, was rubbing 
his injured limb energetically : 

It's time you went aboard, 'less you want 
to get another dose. We're here to look after 
things while Uncle Ben is away, an' don't 
count on havin' sich as you 'round here after 
dark ! I'm goin' to pile a lot of rocks on this 
gun, when it has been pointed straight for 


88 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

you, an’ then tie a string to the trigger so I 
can pull it without takin’ the chances of 
havin’ my head blown off. If you’re in the 
way there’ll be a mighty good show of gettin’ 
hurt.” 

What’s goin’ on over there ? ” a voice 
cried from across the water, and as the boys 
remained silent in surprise they heard the 
splash of oars in the distance. 

“ Uncle Ben has come back ! ” Sam shouted, 
in a tone of most intense relief, and imme- 
diately after came the question : 

“ What’s the matter ashore ? ” 

“ Cap’en Doak has been tryin’ to burn the 
shanty I ” Tom replied, and from the deck of 
the schooner Rube Rowe took part in the con- 
versation by saying irritably : 

I reckon you haven’t got back any too 
soon, Uncle Ben. The skipper is crazier than 
a woodchuck, an’ if the boys hadn’t put up a 
pretty stiff fight he’d cut quite a swarth ! ” 
There was no reply, but Sam fancied that 
the oars were worked more energetically, as if 
the old lobster catcher was in a hurry to gain 
the shore, and Tom whispered, as he made 
careful selection of two rocks : 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 89 

“ Let’s get down on the beach about as soon 
as your Uncle Ben comes ashore, for there’s 
no tollin’ what that bloomin’ stepfather of 
yours may try to do to the old man.” 

It is possible that Sam would not have ven- 
tured down from the cliff alone ; but he could 
do no less than follow the example set by his 
companion and by the time Uncle Ben’s dory 
struck the shore the two lads were so near 
that they might easily have fallen upon Cap- 
tain Doak before he could do a mischief. 

The old lobster catcher hauled his boat far 
up on the beach and threw out the anchor, 
lest she should drift away when the tide rose 
again, before saying anything to the man 
whom he had warned against trespassing on 
Apple Island. Then, instead of speaking in 
an angry tone, he said placidly : 

You are only makin’ matters worse for 
yourself, Eliakim, by tryin’ to work mischief. 
I allowed you’d let your temper get the upper 
hand an’ so did what I could to protect Sam 
Cushing. I’ve finished the business at the 
Port, ’cordin’ to what I promised, an’ if you 
lay the weight of your finger on the lad ag’in 
you’ll be buckin’ agin the whole state of 


90 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Maine, ^cause you’ve no longer got a shadder 
of a claim on him.” 

What’s the meanin’ of all that, you old 
idjut?” Captain Doak cried angrily, looking 
toward Uncle Ben for the first time since he 
had come ashore. 

I mean that a legal guardian will be ap- 
p’inted for the boy you’ve wronged outer his 
mother’s house, an’ his case will be looked 
inter by the judge. As for your bein’ here, 
that’s another matter, an’ I’ve found out jest 
what rights I’ve got to this ’ere island, seein’s 
how I pay rent for it. You’re to keep a proper 
distance, Eliakim Doak, for I’m warnin’ you 
off of what is the same as my property, an’ if 
you put your foot on this place ag’in I’ll have 
you sued for trespass.” 

Hurray for Uncle Ben,” said Tom glee- 
fully. Sam was too astonished to speak. 

“ It takes considerable to get me started,” 
Uncle Ben went on, an’ you mustn’t think 
that all this has come on me sudden-like ; 
I’ve had it in mind ever since the day you 
sold Sam’s house, puttin’ the money inter your 
own pocket, but didn’t get ’round to straight- 
enin’ things till you allowed he was obleeged 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 


91 


to stop aboard with you, doin’ a man’s work 
an’ gettin’ nothin’ in the way of wages.” 
Then walking toward his shanty, giving no 
heed as to what Captain Doak might propose 
to do, the old man said to the boys, “ I reckon 
it is time you turned in, for the night is get- 
tin’ old. Come with me, for growin’ lads 
need a good bit of sleep to keep ’em in shape.” 

Tom and Sam followed Uncle Ben ; but be- 
fore entering the shanty both looked back to 
see what the commander of the Sally D.” 
was doing, and, much to their surprise, saw 
that he remained seated on the sand as when 
the old lobster catcher came ashore. 

He’s not goin’ to leave,” Tom announced, 
as he closed the door behind him lest the sub- 
ject of their conversation should overhear the 
words, and Uncle Ben replied placidly : 

“ He’ll go aboard after a spell, an’ get the 
schooner under way. An obstinate man is 
Eliakim Doak, an’ it goes agin the grain to 
be forced inter doin’ what he don’t like. 
Have you had much trouble with him?” 

Both lads told the story of what had hap- 
pened on the island, giving the story in a 
fragmentary way, but none the less clearly, 


92 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

and when the recital was done Uncle Ben said 
in a tone of conviction : 

It’s lucky he didn’t have his will, an’ 
p’rhaps it’s well he kicked up a row, else I 
might have fiddled over my plan till there 
wasn’t life enough left in me to carry it out 
as I’ve figgered on. Now it’s the same as 
started, an’ all owin’ to Eliakim’s bad 
temper.” 

Sam and Tom looked at each other in per- 
plexity. Uncle Ben appeared to think he had 
accomplished something of importance, and 
yet they failed to understand what he meant, 
for to mix a plan of his with the actions of 
Captain Doak seemed much like trying to 
combine oil with water. 

What is it. Uncle Ben ? ” Sam asked after 
waiting in vain for the old man to make the 
necessary explanations. How did Cap’en 
Doak’s tryin’ to burn the shanty have any- 
thin’ to do with your plan ? ” 

It wasn’t what he tried to do since I left 
that made any difference ; but only because I 
knew he was out to make trouble. I’ll get a 
bite to eat, fill my pipe, an’ then, while I’m 
takin’ comfort, you shall hear all about it.” 


Uncle Ben’s Arrival 


93 


The old man set about making ready a meal, 
and while he was thus engaged Tom crept out 
to learn what move Captain Doak might have 
made, returning five minutes later with the 
report that the commander of the “ Sally D.” 
yet remained on the beach as when they had 
left him. 


CHAPTER VIII 


UNCLE ben’s “ PLAN ” 

Before Uncle Ben’s ^^bite ” had been made 
ready the boys understood that it was quite 
time for them to have breakfast. Already 
the first gray light of the coming day could 
be seen in the eastern sky, and it surprised 
them not a little at thus realizing how long a 
time had been spent in defending the shanty. 

“ It didn’t seem to be as if we’d been foolin’ 
with Cap’en Doak so long, but ’cordin’ to the 
looks of things he’s made a night of it,” Sam 
said in surprise, as he looked out of the shanty 
door at the sky. 

I’m reckonin’ you got so excited that you 
couldn’t keep any very close run of the time,” 
and as he spoke Uncle Ben displayed a slice 
of juicy steak he had brought from the main- 
land. What do you think of that ? It ain’t 
very often I allow myself to buy meat when 
there’s plenty of fish to be had for the takin’, 
94 


Uncle Ben’s “Plan” 


95 


but this seemed to be what you might call an 
ex try occasion on account of its bein^ the be- 
ginning of my plan.” 

“You said you’d tell us what that was,” 
Sam suggested carelessly, and the old man re- 
plied with a merry laugh : 

“That part of the story will come in reg’lar 
order, but not till I’ve wore the edge off my 
appetite, for it makes a man feel mighty 
sharkish to pull the greater part of the way 
from Southport to Apple Island.” 

“ Why didn’t you wait till mornin’, same’s 
you figgered on ? ” 

“ Wa’al, I’d got through with the business 
concernin’ Eliakim Doak, an’ somehow — I 
can’t rightly say why — it seemed as if I was 
needed here, so I made sail. P’rhaps it was 
lucky I did, for that stepfather of yourn had 
let himself drop inter a bit of temper.” 

“ Temper I ” Tom repeated with a laugh. 
“ He was boilin’ mad, that’s what ailed him, 
an’ ready for all kinds of trouble. Couldn’t 
you use the dory’s sail?” 

“ None to speak of, lad, nnne to speak of. 
A dory makes more leeway than headway, 
when it comes to standin’ up agin the wind, 


96 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

so after foolin' 'round with the canvas for a 
spell I took to the oars. Time was when I 
didn't mind a pull from here to the Port, but 
now it seems like a longish job. This meat 
smells good, eh ? " 

“ That's what it does ! " Tom replied em- 
phatically. ** I haven’t had anythin' to eat 
but fish for so long that it seems like I must 
be growin' fins." 

“ Wa'al, we've got plenty of time to enjoy 
this, 'cause we won't need to pull pots till well 
toward noon. Jest take a squint outside, an' 
see if Eliakim is still nestlin' in the sand." 

He isn't on the beach, an’ the dory has 
disappeared, so I reckon he's on board the 
‘ Sally,' " Sam reported after a brief survey of 
the shore. 

We'll hope he's got sense enough left to 
give Apple Island a wide berth in the future, 
for I've made up my mind that he shan't hang 
round here makin' trouble. The time has 
come when, if my plan is to amount to any- 
thin', I've got to stick up for all the rights the 
law allows. I reckon you lads may as well 
fall to, for the meat is cooked, an' I've got two 
loaves of baker's bread to go with it, say in' 


Uncle Ben’s “Plan” 97 

nothin^ of these pertaters what are browned 
to a turn.’’ 

The boys did not need to be urged ; both 
were hungry, as well they might be after the 
exertions of the night, and Tom was about to 
make an attack upon the potatoes without 
waiting for Uncle Ben to serve him, when he 
saw that Sam was sitting with bowed head, as 
if waiting for some ceremony to be performed. 

“ What seems to be the trouble? ” he asked 
with a laugh, which died away very suddenly 
when the old lobster catcher began thanking 
his heavenly Father for the food with which 
they had been provided. 

It’s the least we can do, Tom, to thank the 
Lord for all the blessin’s He’s allowin’ us, for 
certain it is we don’t deserve any,” Uncle 
Ben said when his prayer was finished and he 
had begun to attend to the wants of his guests. 

I ain’t countin’ on tryin’ to read you a lesson, 
for any lad what’s got common sense can see 
how much he owes his Maker; but I hope 
you’ll kinder keep your weather eye liftin’ 
till you come to realize how the thing 
stands.” 

Tom’s face fiushed, and Uncle Ben, under- 


98 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

standing that he felt ashamed, set about telling 
of his doings in Southport, and how much of 
stores he was counting to bring from the 
mainland on the next trip. 

Once during the meal Sam looked out of the 
door to make certain that the commander of the 
Sally D.” was not lurking in the vicinity ; 
but nothing was seen to cause alarm. The 
schooner remained at anchor in the cove, and 
it was not yet sufficiently light to make out 
whether any person was on deck. 

When hunger had been appeased, Sam in- 
sisted that he and Tom be allowed to wash the 
dishes while Uncle Ben was filling his pipe, 
and the old man was hardly more than ready 
to explain his plan before the lads were at 
liberty to act the part of listeners. 

“ IVe had this ^ere thing on my mind for 
many a year, but never seemed able to get 
hound to it till I heard how Eliakim Doak 
was treatin^ Sammy, an’ then I says to myself, 
says I, ‘ Benny, this is the time when you 
oughter be gettin’ your plan under way,’ ” 
and Uncle Ben leaned back in his chair with 
the smoke clouds curling around his head, 
allowed that I’d take Sammy in an’ care 


Uncle Ben’s “Plan” 


99 


for him, seein^s how he didn^t have anybody 
to look after him proper like. Then come the 
idea that if I could lend a hand to Sammy, 
why couldn’t I do the same to half a dozen 
lads what was needin’ a home ; but the thing 
didn’t come out straight in my mind till I 
was on my way to Southport yesterday.” 

I can’t seem to make out exactly what 
you mean,” Sam said in perplexity as the old 
man ceased speaking, much as if his story had 
been told. 

It’ll all come plain after a bit, lad, ’cause 
you see I ain’t got inter my yarn yet, so to 
speak. Wa’al, I was turnin’ the matter over 
in my mind jest before Tom takes it inter his 
head to show up, an’ then I says to myself, 
says I, ^ Benny, it’s all bein’ worked out for 
yer, so go ahead an’ do the rest,’ an’ that’s 
what I did yesterday, so to speak.” 

But what did you do yesterday. Uncle 
Benny ? ” Sam asked in perplexity. 

That’s jest what I’m tryin’ to tell you, 
lad ; but first an’ foremost you must know 
what the plan really is. I allowed that this 
’ere island was big enough for quite a family, 
an’ that a good-sized school of boys might get 


lOO 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

a decent livin^ here, if so be they was willin' 
to work. You see it wouldn't be much of a 
job to raise all the vegetables that a big lot 
of people could eat in a winter. Then ag’in, 
if we had a schooner the size of the ‘ Sally D.,' 
an' boys enough to run her, we'd be makin' a 
large dollar by fishin', with the lobster busi- 
ness goin' on same as ever. Now do you 
catch on to the plan ? " 

You mean to hire a lot of boys to come 
here an' work for you I " Tom cried, believing 
he understood the drift of the old man’s re- 
marks. 

I don't mean to hire 'em, lad ; but when 
we find a boy like you was yesterday, we’ll 
say to him somethin’ like this : ^ If you're 
willin' to pay your own way in the world, 
want a home, an' will live peaceable one with 
another, come inter your Uncle Ben's family, 
an' we’ll share an' share alike.' Now here 
are you two, both willin' to do a full share of 
work, an' here's me with the island, boats an' 
lobster gear for a start. We've already set 
ourselves up as a family, an' if so be we run 
across a decent lad who's in need of a ^ home — 
mind you, we won’t cavort 'round the country 


Uncle Ben’s “Plan” 


101 


huntin^ for ^em, but if we come across one, 
we'll give him a show on Apple Island, leavin' 
him at liberty to turn his back on us when 
things ain't to his likin'." 

Is it kind of a 'sylum that you're startin', 
sir ? " Tom asked in a tone of disappointment, 
and Uncle Ben replied emphatically : 

Not a bit of it, lad, not a bit of it ! We'll 
jest gather a family here, with no charity 
business 'bout it. Each one shall do what he 
can for the good of himself an' all around 
him. We'll have some rules, same's would be 
found in every proper kind of a family, an' 
when we can't live up to 'em, we'll separate 
peaceable an' friendly. It'll be a case of 
workin' for a livin', an' workin' hard ; but 
we'll be able to live snug, lads, for Apple 
Island ain't the worst place in the world, an' 
if so be the family grows till this shanty is 
too small for it, why all we have to do is build 
another." 

Tom's face was aglow with pleasure, and 
Sam stood by the old man's chair that he 
might show his joy by caressing Uncle Ben's 
hand, worn and horny though it was with 
hard labor. 


102 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

'' Like the plan, eh ? ” and the lobster 
catcher appeared to be well pleased by the 
expression on the faces of the boys. Wa’al, 
the Lord has been mighty good to me all my 
life, an' I've laid by a tidy bit of money, 
thinkin' the day might come when I could 
help them as hadn't had it as easy in this 
world as has been my lot, an' I reckon it's 
close at hand. When the family grows big 
enough, I can buy, an' pay cash for, a trim 
little schooner 'bout the size of the ‘ Sally D.,’ 
an' then we'll carry on a reg'lar wholesale 
business in the fishin' line. I've jest taken a 
new lease for the island, runnin' twenty years, 
an' when that time has come to an end I'll be 
in the other world, while one of you is keepin' 
the family goin'." 

But what if Cap'en Doak should keep on 
tryin' to get hold of me now, when every- 
thin' looks so fine ? " Sam asked in a whisper, 
as if afraid of expressing his fears in words. 

You needn't have any trouble on that 
score, lad. When Eliakim turns up in South- 
port ag'in, he'll find out what I've been doin' 
an' won't dare to raise so much as a finger 
agin you." 


Uncle Ben’s “Plan” 


103 


S’posin’ there should be five or six boys 
here at one time, do you reckon we could all 
earn a livin^ ? ’’ Tom asked. 

“ Earn a livin’ ? Why, the lobster fishin’, 
carried on industriously, would run the whole 
family, an’ if we have a schooner for deep sea 
work, there’s no reason why we couldn’t lay 
by considerable money. I’m countin’ that 
when the time comes for me to go over the 
dark river, if so be the plan is carried out, I 
can leave you boys with a handsome capital. 
But remember this, an’ don’t let it out of 
your mind once, that the whole plan depends 
on every member of the family doin’ his level 
best in the way of work. There’ll be plenty 
of times when we’ll have a chance for play ; 
but while business is to be looked after, it’s a 
case of hustle, ’cause lobsters an’ fish don’t 
hang ’round cryin’ for lazy folks to catch ’em.” 

Then, his plan ” having thus far been 
given in detail. Uncle Ben went out of the 
shanty, much as if believing that these, the 
first two members of his family,” might want 
to discuss the matter, and no sooner had he 
gone than Tom exclaimed with a long-drawn 
sigh: 


104 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ Well I’ll be bio wed, if he ain’t the best 
kind of a man I ever run across ! Jest think 
of his workin’ all these years with the idee 
of spendin’ his money on a bloomin’ lot of 
duffers like us ! ” 

He’s mighty good, an’ it makes me feel 
awful mean when I think that if it hadn’t 
been for you I wouldn’t had the nerve to 
stand Cap’en Doak off when he was tryin’ to 
burn the shanty ! ” Sam said mournfully, and 
his companion cried cheerfully : 

“ Don’t let any sich notions get to worryin’ 
yer, Sam. If you’d been here alone I’m al- 
lowin’ you’d perked up in great shape ; but 
that pirate had kept the upper hand so long 
that you’d got kinder shaky. I wonder if 
he’s had sense enough to make sail ? ” 

By way of answering his own question Tom 
opened the door of the shanty, and an excla- 
mation of mingled surprise and anger burst 
from his lips as he looked out : 

Well, he’s the worst ever ! Will you look 
at the miserable sneak cornin’ ashore again ! 
Now what game is he tryin’ to work, I won- 
der?” 

By this time the new day had fully come, 


Uncle Ben’s ‘^Plan” 


105 

and as Sam peered out over his companion’s 
shoulder he could see Rube Rowe sitting idly 
on the rail of the “ Sally D.,” while Captain 
Doak was rowing ashore alone in the dory. 

Uncle Ben must have learned the captain’s 
intentions while the boys were talking in the 
shanty, for he was standing on the shore at a 
point where it seemed positive the dory would 
take the sand, evidently counting on having 
it out ” alone with the commander of the 

Sally D.” 

<< We’ve got to take a hand in this, Sam I ” 
Tom cried hurriedly. There’s no tollin’ 
what that pirate may do to your Uncle Ben, 
an’ we’re the ones who’ve got to stand up for 
the new family if it comes to a row.” 

Tom did not wait to see what steps Sam 
proposed to take ; but, stopping only long 
enough to arm himself with the buoy to 
which was attached a short length of rope, 
ran with all speed toward where the old lob- 
ster catcher stood awaiting the coming of him 
who might well be looked upon as an enemy. 

Sam Cushing was not far behind his friend 
in making ready to aid Uncle Ben in case it 
should be necessary. A broken oar was the 


io6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

only weapon near at hand, and with this up- 
raised as a club, he ran and took his place 
alongside Tom Falonna, who, ankle-deep in 
the water, stood directly in front of the old 
man. 


CHAPTER IX 


THE STRANDED SCHOONER 

The old lobster catcher understood full well 
why the boys were gathering so close around 
him, and most likely their desire to defend 
pleased him well ; yet he motioned Tom to 
stand aside, as he said : 

I'm allowin', lads, that Eliakim won't be 
wild enough to kick up very much of a row, 
an' by showin' yourselves ready for a fight, it 
might make him worse'n he is naturally. Get 
up shore a bit, an' leave me to deal with him, 
for he ain't the first man I've seen a good 
deal mixed by bad temper." 

Tom had hardly more than time to obey this 
command before the master of the Sally D." 
was ashore and striding up to Uncle Ben 
threateningly. Tom swung his buoy ready 
for use, believing that an attack was about to 
be made upon the old man. 

“ I want you to understand, Ben Johnson, 
that I don't allow anybody to mix himself in 
107 


io8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

my business as you’ve been doin’, an’ I’m here 
to settle accounts,” and Captain Doak raised 
his hand as if to strike ; but Tom’s buoy came 
so near his head that he prudently stepped 
back a couple of paces. 

The time has gone by, Eliakim, when 
you an’ I can settle anythin’. In order to 
protect Sammy, I was obliged to go to South- 
port yesterday, an’ when next you put in 
there it will be to see that your power over 
him is gone. I’ve taken a longer lease of the 
island, an’ found out jest what my rights are 
as to the place. You’re trespassin’, an’ if you 
don’t take yourself off mighty quick, I shall 
enter complaint agin you.” 

It seemed impossible for the commander of 
the Sally D.” to speak, so great was his 
anger, and while one might have counted 
twenty he stood in front of the old man wav- 
ing his hands threateningly, but not daring 
to advance a single pace because of the buoy 
which Tom swung around his head in a man- 
ner that told how heavy a blow could be 
delivered with it. Before it was possible for 
the infuriated man to gain command of his 
tongue. Rube Rowe shouted : 


The Stranded Schooner 109 

Come aboard, cap’en. What’s the use of 
kickin’ agin the law, for you know Uncle 
Ben has the upper hand ? ” 

I’ll pound you to a jelly when I get 
aboard, which won’t be till after I’ve squared 
accounts with this meddlin’ old idjut ! ” Cap- 
tain Doak cried savagely, and his “ crew ” 
replied impatiently : 

If you don’t come ’round on another tack 
mighty soon. I’ll go ashore, an’ once there 
you ain’t big enough to make me step foot on 
this deck ag’in ! ” 

I’ll lash you to the foremast for a mutinous 
hound, that’s the way I’ll serve you, an’ it 
won’t take me long to do it ! ” 

It was as if the captain had suddenly for- 
gotten that he came ashore to settle accounts 
with Uncle Ben, so great had become his de- 
sire to punish his crew ” for thus daring to 
speak disrespectfully, and without further heed 
to those on the beach, he leaped into the dory, 
pulling back to the schooner as rapidly as he 
had previously rowed toward the island. 

He’ll come pretty nigh killin’ Rube,” Sam 
cried in alarm. He’s not quite himself, an’ 
when he gets that way he’s terrible.” 


1 lO 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

I’m allowin’ that Rube will hold his 
own,” Uncle Ben replied placidly, an’ it’ll be 
strange if Eliakim don’t get the worst of the 
bargain.” 

Why don’t Sam an’ I go aboard the 
schooner to take a hand in whatever hap- 
pens?” Tom asked quickly. '‘That sailor is 
a decent fellow, an’ I’d hate to see him done 
up by a duffer like Cap’en Doak.” 

" I’ve forbid his cornin’ on the island, an’ it 
wouldn’t do for us to lay ourselves open to a 
charge of trespass by goin’ aboard his vessel. 
You needn’t have any fear but that Reuben 
will come out all right jest now ; but what 
may happen after the ' Sally ’ gets under way 
is another matter.” 

The boys made no reply to this remark, for 
Uncle Ben had but just ceased speaking when 
Captain Doak ran the dory alongside the 
schooner and was clambering over the rail. 
Rube Rowe standing amidships as if indiffer- 
ent as to what might be done. The enraged 
man had hardly more than gained a footing 
on the deck when the " crew ” suddenly 
aroused himself to activity, and while one 
might have counted ten, the two struggled to- 


The Stranded Schooner iii 

gether, after which the master of the schooner 
dropped on the deck as if felled by a blow. 

Then Rube Rowe disappeared from view, 
and while the boys were wondering if he had 
been seriously injured during the short squab- 
ble, he came out of the cabin, dragging a sea 
chest, which he lowered into the dory that 
lay alongside. In another moment he was 
pulling for the shore, and Uncle Ben an- 
nounced as if the situation needed little or no 
explanation : 

Reuben has allowed to desert the ‘ Sally 
D.,^ an^ I reckon Eliakim will have a hard 
time to find another man, for he ainT in no 
ways a favorite with fishermen. 

How can he sail the ‘ Sally ’ alone ? Sam 
asked, in surprise. 

“ He canT, an’ that’s why I’m sorry he an’ 
Reuben parted company so soon, ’cause we’ll 
have him layin’ here kickin’ up a fuss when 
we count on bein’ peaceable.” 

Reckon I can take your dory a minute, 
eh. Uncle Ben? ” Rube said as he beached the 
schooner’s boat and threw the sea chest out on 
the sand. Then, without waiting for reply, 
he launched the old man’s craft, and began 


112 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

towing the Sally D/s dory out to the 
schooner. 

Until he had completed his task Uncle Ben 
and his family ” watched the proceedings in 
silence, but when he returned to the shore, 
pulling the dory belonging to the island well 
up on the beach, the old man asked with just 
a tinge of curiosity in his tones : 

“ Where is Eliakim ? 

Stretched out on the deck, too ugly to 
move ; now he knows I won’t stand any more 
of his nonsense.” 

Ain’t you puttin’ yourself in the way of 
bein’ called a mutineer, by knockin’ the cap’en 
down ? ” 

Mutiny aboard a fishin’ vessel layin’ at 
anchor, with only one man as crew, an’ he 
doin’ no more’n protecting himself!” Mr. 
Rowe repeated with a scornful laugh. If 
Doak can make mutiny out of it, an’ prove to 
a judge that I wasn’t doin’ any more’n a de- 
cent man has a right to do, by defendin’ him- 
self, let him go ahead an’ I’ll stand the shot. 
Say, Uncle Ben, will you keep me here a little 
while, pervidin’ I’ll turn to an’ work my 
board?” 


The Stranded Schooner 113 

For certain, Reuben. You’re welcome to 
stay as long as you like, an’ needn’t distress 
yourself tryin’ to pay for what you eat. It 
kinder looks as if my family was growin’ 
faster’n I counted on, an’ at this rate I’ll have 
to get somebody to help me out with the 
housekeepin’.” 

I’ll do the cookin’an’ Tom can look after the 
shanty,” Sam cried, and Master Falonna added: 

“ We can do that much, an’ ’tend to the 
lobster-pots while we’re restin’. Even then it 
won’t be any more’n a snap, ’longside of what 
I’ve been having.” 

I reckon I’m able to do my full share of 
the work for a spell yet, so we won’t shove it 
all off on to you lads. Reuben shall lend a 

hand, as he’s allowed, an’ Hello ! Elia- 

kim has come to, an’ now I’m guessin’ we’ll 
hear considerable bad talk.” 

Captain Doak had risen to his feet, and was 
standing near the rail looking toward the 
shore, where he could see that his “ crew ” had 
really abandoned him. He gazed at the group 
on the beach for an instant, then looked along- 
side where the dory was made fast, and after- 
ward shouted in a voice thick with rage ; 


114 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

‘‘ Don’t think you’ve beaten me off, Ben 
Johnson ! I’ll spend all my time from this 
out settlin’ accounts with you, an’ when they’ve 
been squared, I’ll make Rube Rowe wish he’d 
never been born ! Better do 3^our crowin’ 
now, ’cause you won’t have a chance after 
twenty-four hours have gone by I ” 

I’m allowin’ Eliakim’s bark is worse’n his 
bite,” Uncle Ben said placidly, as the com- 
mander of the Sally D.” ran forward much 
as though time was very precious just then. 
“ But what is the poor creeter countin’ on 
doin’? Surely, he don’t allow to sail the 
schooner alone I ” 

‘‘ He’s liable to allow anything,” Mr. Rowe 
replied, and then the conversation ceased as 
those on the beach watched the captain of the 
schooner. 

That he intended to sail the vessel alone 
could be seen when he hauled in on the 
anchor. 

He won’t go far if he don’t make sail 
mighty quick,” Mr. Rowe muttered as the lit- 
tle schooner swung around once the anchor 
was clear of the bottom. “ With the wind 
settin’ in so strong from the s’uthard, it’ll be 


The Stranded Schooner 115 

a touch an' go if he clears the point. Why 
didn't he get some sail on her first, an' then 
he might have been able to handle him- 
self? " 

When in his right mind Captain Doak was 
a good seaman, and, perhaps, there were none 
in Southport who could get more speed out of 
a vessel than he ; but now he was little better 
than a crazy person, and before it was possible 
to raise an inch of canvas the bow of the 

Sally D." was so far inside the point that she 
could not by any possibility be made to 
clear it. 

“ Let go your anchor, Eliakim, or you'll 
take the ground for sartin I " Uncle Ben cried 
excitedly, and Captain Doak replied, as he 
ceased work to shake his fist threateningly : 

Hold your tongue I I'll run my own craft 
as I please, an' when I come back there won’t 
be enough left of you an' your gang to fill a 
pint pot ! " 

Then he turned to the main halyards once 
more ; but before he could make the first mo- 
tion toward hoisting the sail the schooner, 
given considerable headway by the strong 
wind, struck heavily just inside the point, 


ii6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

throwing her commander to the deck. The 
surf was by no means heavy, but yet had suf- 
ficient force to send the '‘Sally D." inshore 
yet further, until her nose was buried deeply 
in the sand, when she heeled over at a sharp 
angle. 

“ That’s the end of his cruise, an’ now we’ll 
have him on our hands, for no matter who 
owns the island, he’s got the right to come 
ashore in order to save his schooner,” Uncle 
Ben said mournfully, and Mr. Rowe added : 

“ Unless he hires a steamer to pull her off, 
she’ll lay where she is for good an’ all. It’s 
the top of the tide, an’ nothin’ but a tug, 
which can’t be found this side of Portland, 
will move her. I allow that Eliakim hasn’t 
got ready money enough to pay any sich 
bills.” 

By this time Captain Doak had scrambled 
to his feet, and was gazing stupidly into the 
water, as if not fully understanding what had 
happened ; but he aroused himself to activity 
when Uncle Ben cried in a friendly tone : 

“ I’m allowin’ you’re needin’ a tug, Eliakim, 
an’ if we can take any word to Southport for 
you, we’re ready. The ‘ Sally ’ is on there to 


The Stranded Schooner 117 

stay till you can get steam power to haul 
her off” 

“ Mind your own business, or it’ll be the 
worse for you ! ” Captain Doak roared. 
“When I’m so far gone that I’m ready to 
take advice from a cantin’ old hypocrite like 
you, it’ll be time to order my coffin ! ” 

Then, moving like one in a fury of rage, the 
commander of the stranded schooner literally 
threw himself over the rail into the dory, and 
an instant later was pulling like mad in the 
direction of Southport. 

“ He’s crazy as a hedgehog, an’ I’m allowin’ 
he’ll be worse before gettin’ better,” Mr. Rowe 
said as he turned his attention to dragging 
the heavy chest toward the shanty, while Tom 
and Sam ran along the beach until arriving 
opposite where the “ Sally ” lay helpless, and 
so near the disabled schooner’s bow that it 
seemed as if they might board her without 
wetting a foot. 

“ Don’t make the mistake of foolin’ with 
her,” Uncle Ben shouted warningly. “ She’s 
abandoned, an’ any one has the right to take 
possession, but we can’t afford to have more of 
a row with Eliakim Doak, so the safest plan 


ii8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

is to give the schooner a wide berth. We’ll 
pull the pots now, so’s to stay in the shanty 
when he comes back to set about workin’ her 
off.” 

“ An’ it’ll stand him in hand to come 
mighty soon, for it won’t take long for her to 
settle herself so far in the sand that all the 
steamers ’twixt here an’ Boston couldn’t pull 
her off,” Mr. Rowe cried as he dragged his 
chest inside the shanty, disappearing with it 
to come out a moment later and say cheerily : 

If you lads know where the pots are. 
I’ll row the dory while you do the pullin’. 
Uncle Ben can stay ashore an’ look after 
things, ’cause there ain’t any call for all hands 
to go.” 

The old lobster catcher made no protest at 
thus being relieved of labor, and as soon as 
they could make ready Mr. Rowe and the two 
boys set off to make a complete voyage around 
the island, as would be necessary in order to 
examine all the traps, while Uncle Ben was 
left critically examining the Sally D.” from 
a distance, as if trying to form in his mind 
some plan of launching her. 


CHAPTER X 


MR. ROWE’s proposition 

The catch brought in on this day, when 
Uncle Ben had no hand in the work, was so 
large as to surprise the old man, and he said 
in a tone of content, when Sam reported the 
number of lobsters put into the car, which was 
just outside of where the stranded schooner 
lay : 

“ ’Gordin^ to the looks of things it would 
pay for me to stay ashore all the time, for I 
havenT taken as many full-sized lobsters this 
last month.’’ 

Well, why don’t you do it. Uncle Ben ? ” 
Rube Rowe asked, as if the matter was one 
which might readily be arranged. You’re 
gettin’ kinder old to be knockin’ ’round in a 
boat, an’ it looks as if you had help enough 
here to run things about as they oughter be 
run.” 

“ I don’t allow that the boys are quite up to 
handlin’ a dory in heavy weather, an’ pullin’ 
119 


120 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

pots at the same time, so I reckon it’s a case 
of my keepin’ off the shelf a spell longer,” 
Uncle Ben replied placidly. I wouldn’t 
know what to do with myself, knockin’ 
’round on shore with nothin’ ’special to be 
done.” 

The boys have been tellin’ me ’bout your 
plan, an’ I allowed that when you’d got your 
family together, there’d be plenty for you to 
do without lobsterin’, ’cept when you wanted 
to tackle the job in pleasant weather for what 
fun might be got out of it,” Mr. Rowe sug- 
gested in a tone which told that he would 
have said more, but lacked the courage, where- 
upon Uncle Ben asked with a smile : 

What is it, Reuben ? There’s more in 
your noddle than you’ve let out so far, an’ no 
reason why you shouldn’t make a clean breast 
of it.” 

“ Wa’al, I reckon I may as well say what 
came inter my mind while we were out in the 
dory. The boys got the idea that you was 
countin’ on buyin’ a schooner, so’s you could 
do a little fishin’ ? ” 

That’s in my mind, Reuben ; but, of course, 
it ain’t to be thought of till the family grows 


Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 121 

a bit. Sam an^ Tom will have their hands 
full with lobsterin', an^ consequently, there 
wouldn't be anybody to run the vessel if I 
bought one." 

It was the idee of the schooner that set me 
to thinkin'," Mr. Rowe said hesitatingly, much 
as though hardly daring to put his thoughts 
into words. If there was another man on 
the island, I don't see why you couldn't run 
a schooner on short trips, an' 'tend to the 
lobster catchin' at the same time ; two boys, 
with a skipper who knew his business, oughter 
bring in quite considerable fares of fish." 

But so long as I'm the only one to look 
after anythin' of the kind, there ain't much 
sense in talkin' 'bout it," Uncle Ben said with 
a laugh which ceased very suddenly as a new 
idea presented itself. Look here, Reuben 
Rowe, are you kinder hintin' that you'd turn 
to with us ? " 

That's jest the size of it. Uncle Ben ! " Mr. 
Rowe exclaimed, evidently much relieved in 
mind by having the matter thus brought 
speedily to a head. 

I ain't allowin' that I could run a schooner 
or look after the lobster end of it as well as 


122 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

you ; but yet you know I'm counted an A 1 
man aboard a fisherman." 

We couldn't afford to hire a skipper, 
Reuben. If I can contrive to pay for a vessel, 
the crew will have to work for the family, 
without countin' on gettin' wages." 

“ Wa'al, ain't that the same as I've been 
talkin’ ? " and now Mr. Rowe really appeared 
aggrieved because he had been misunderstood. 

What ? " Uncle Ben cried in amazement, 
as, with his hands on his knees he looked 
keenly at the fisherman. Do you mean to 
say you'd be willin’ to come here to Apple Is- 
land an’ work on the same lay as the boys? " 

Why shouldn't I ? " Mr. Rowe asked 
meekly. Take one season with another I 
don't earn much more’n my keep, 'specially 
when I go ashore at this port or that an' blow 
in my wages same's the most of the crew do, 
an' I can't seem to hold off when they're keen 
to have me go with ’em. Seein’s how I never 
was any great of a scholar, an' wasted what 
few chances I did have for gettin’ an educa- 
tion, I can't count on goin’ ahead as a sailor, 
so why not stop here where things look to be 
mighty snug? Take it all in all. Uncle Ben," 


Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 123 

and now Mr. Rowe’s tone was one of plead- 
ing, there ain’t much difference betwixt the 
way I’m fixed an’ the way the boys stand ; so 
far as I know there ain’t child nor chick in 
this world that wants to have any truck with 
me, ’cept it is in the way of hirin’ me for the 
smallest wages I’ll take. When I get so low 
down as to sail with Eliakim Doak it seems 
as if it was time to take a turn, an’ p’rhaps it 
would come if I could be one of your family, 
same’s Sam is.” 

Look here, Reuben,” and Uncle Ben spoke 
in a most friendly tone, “ you’ve got good 
reason to believe that I’d share whatever I had 
with you so long as you keep yourself fairly 
clean in habits, as I’ve heard you do. If so 
be you wanter jine our family, rememberin’ 
that each one works for the good of the whole, 
settle down here, an’ we’ll make things as 
pleasant as we can ; but don’t think you’re 
^bound to stay any pertic’lar time. Whenever 
the fit takes yer, pack up an’ be off with 
friendly feelin’s all ’round.” 

You’re what I call a good man. Uncle Ben, 
an’ it might s’prise yer to know what a big 
favor you’re doin’ for me. I’ll have a home 


124 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

for the first time in twenty years, an’ the show 
to feel that I’m of some use in the world. I 
don’t count on braggin’, but at the same 
time I’m allowin’ I can help out a good bit.” 

“ I know full well you can, Reuben, an’ 
I’m glad to have you with us. We’ll build 
up a place here on Apple Island that a man 
can take pride in, an’ it’ll help mightily to 
have you join us ; but remember, when you 
have an itchin’ to get out with the rest of the 
world, don’t be backward in speakin’ right 
out.” 

Mr. Rowe seemed to think it necessary to 
shake hands all round in token of having thus 
been made a member of the “ family,” and, 
this done in the gravest manner possible, he 
set about dragging his chest into the shanty 
that he might make himself more fully at 
home, explaining to Sam in the meanwhile 
that all he owned was there. 

I’m here bag an’ baggage, lad, an’ mighty 
glad to be settled down for the first time since 
I can remember.” 

That noon Sam cooked, dinner, making a 
regular feast with roasted lobsters, fried fish 
and something which looked considerably 


Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 125 

like an apple pie, although the cook modestly 
confessed that he had not had real good luck 
with it/^ 

The remainder of the day was spent catch- 
ing cunners to be used as bait for the lobster 
traps ; mending some of the old pots, and 
putting tar on the seams of the dory. Mr. 
Rowe worked as if the labor was sport, and 
Uncle Ben no sooner tried his hand at this 
thing or that, than one of his family in- 
sisted on doing it, until the old man said with 
a laugh of content : 

“ I declare it does seem as if all hands were 
bent on drivin^ me outer business. IVe allers 
been able to putter ^round with nobody to help, 
an^ it comes a little odd not to be allowed to 
so much as raise a finger.^^ 

Your part is to do hard work, bossin^ the 
rest of us. Uncle Ben,’^ Mr. Rowe said cheerily. 
** There ainT so much to be done but that the 
boys an’ me can get through it without half 
tryin’, an’ it’s time you did a little loafin’ so’s 
to see how it seems.” 

During the afternoon Uncle Ben’s family 
fully expected Captain Doak would return 
with a steamer to pull the “ Sally D.” from 


126 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

her resting place in the sand, and when night 
came without any sign from the owner of the 
schooner, Mr. Rowe said, with an air of 
concern : 

I declare I ain^t hankerin’ for a sight of 
Eliakim ; but I do wish he’d show up with a 
tug, for the longer the schooner lays here the 
more it will cost to get her off. Give her one 
week, with a southerly wind blowin’, as is 
likely at this season of the year, an’ she’ll be 
smothered in sand.” 

It’s goin’ to be a big job at the best to get 
her off, seein’s she took the ground at chock 
high water,” Uncle Ben added, as if talking 
to himself ; “ but it’ll cost more’n she’s worth, 
if the work ain’t begun mighty soon.” 

“ How much do you allow she’s worth ? ” 
Tom asked, and one might have thought he 
had it in his mind to buy her, so serious and 
businesslike was his air. 

Wa’al, I allow she’d fetch seven or eight 
hundred dollars afloat, an’ not half that where 
she lays,” Uncle Ben replied as he looked at 
the stranded schooner critically. She must 
be flfteen or sixteen years old, which ain’t 
much if she’d had proper care ; but Eliakim 


Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 127 

has allowed her to run down terribly these 
last two seasons. Look at her ! Oakum 
hangin’ out of her seams like yarn in a 
frayed stockin', an' you never could tell by 
the hull what color she was painted last." 

‘‘ If Eliakim wanted to sell her as she lays, 
I'm allowin' he couldn't get four hundred 
cash, an' yet it wouldn't take so many dollars 
to put her in good fair trim. I'd like to own 
her, high an' dry as she is," Mr. Rowe said 
thoughtfully. 

But how would you get her into the 
water ? " Tom asked curiously. 

I'd leave her where she is till I'd got her 
lookin' somethin' like a vessel, shorin' her up 
so's she wouldn't really bury herself, an' then 
I'd risk the launchin' part of it. She must 
be nigh full of water by this time, for she leaks 
a good bit around the stern-post." 

Wa'al, we can't do any good by settin' 
here chinnin'," Uncle Ben said abruptly as he 
rose to his feet. '' If this 'ere family is to be 
kept from starvin' we'd best turn in, so's to be 
ready for a good day's work to-morrow." 

Sam was the first to turn out" next morn- 
ing, as was his duty since he had taken upon 


128 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

himself the task of cook, and he had no more 
than opened the door than the sleepers were 
startled into wakefulness by hearing him cry : 

Cap^en Doak has come back ; but he’s 
alone, an’ it don’t look as if he was goin’ to 
do anythin’ toward floatin’ the ‘ Sally,’ for he’s 
sittin’ on the sand smokin’.” 

Most likely he’s waitin’ for the steamer to 
come,” Uncle Ben said, as he made a hurried 
toilet. “ If so be he’s got things ready for the 
launchin’ of her, we must all bear a hand.” 

Are you goin’ to help him after what he’s 
tried to do against you?” Tom asked in surprise, 
and the old man replied in a decided tone : 

That goes without sayin’, lad. It’s no 
reason why we should be brutes because he 
makes a beast of himself at times. If there’s 
anythin’ we can do to help another in trouble, 
I’m hopin’ we’ll be ready to do it, without 
stoppin’ to reckon up whether he’s in our debt.” 

Then Uncle Ben went rapidly toward the 
commander of the stranded schooner, and 
Tom Falonna, eager to hear what might be 
said, followed close at his heels ; but neither 
Sam nor Mr. Rowe showed any desire to have 
an interview with Captain Doak. 


Mr. Rowe’s Proposition 129 

Wa’al, Eliakim, are you countin^ on havin^ 
a steamer over here to pull the ‘ Sally ^ off ? 
Uncle Ben asked cheerily, and Captain Doak 
replied in a surly tone : 

Whether I am or not is none of your 
affairs, Ben Johnson, an^ 1^11 thank you to 
keep your nose outer my business or there’ll 
be considerable trouble sich as won’t be 
pleasant.” 

“ Now, see here, Eliakim,” and Uncle Ben 
spoke in a most friendly tone, apparently 
giving no heed to the ill-natured words, I 
ain’t countin’ on meddlin’ with you an’ yours 
more’n I already have, an’ what I did was 
somethin’ that you brought on yourself. 
Now if we can give you a lift in floatin’ the 
* Sally,’ we wanter do it, as neighbors 
should.” 

“ I’ve seen your tracks at the Port, so let me 
tell you, Ben Johnson, that if I couldn’t 
launch the ' Sally ’ without your help, I’d leave 
her to rot where she is ! ” 

Uncle Ben was not so thick-headed but he 
could understand that it would be worse than 
useless to attempt to hold friendly converse 
with Captain Doak while he was in such a 


130 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

humor, therefore he went slowly back to the 
shanty, looking as if in deep distress. 

I hope he’ll never get her off!” Tom 
cried angrily when he and the old man were 
so far from the captain that there could be no 
danger his words would be heard by the owner 
of the schooner. “ He acts like a great big 
chump 1 ” 

There’s no call to say anythin’ harsh, 
Tom,” Uncle Ben said reprovingly. He 
allers used to be a pleasant-spoken man till he 
got into bad habits. I reckon he’ll be glad of 
our help before he finishes the job that’s to be 
done, an’ when that time comes we’ll turn to 
jest as willin’ly as if he’d shown himself to 
be the best friend we ever had. I’m hopin’, 
lad, that this ’ere family I’m tryin’ to get to- 
gether will allers do as they’d be done by, 
for it’s the one mighty good rule in this 
world.” 


CHAPTER XI 


“ FOR SALE ” 

Although Uncle Ben appeared so ready to 
find excuses for Captain Doak’s surliness, Tom 
Falonna was not disposed to let the matter 
drop, as if it were no more than an ordinary 
incident, but, on his return to the shanty, 
told Mr. Rowe and Sam of the meeting, and 
what had passed between the two men, adding 
in conclusion : 

Uordin’ to my way of thinkin^, there’s 
sich a thing as bein’ too good for this ’ere 
world, an’ that’s what’s ailin’ Uncle Ben. 
What he oughter done was to up an’ hit that 
pirate a clip under the ear, so’s to give him a 
lesson in manners. I only wish his schooner 
had to lay there on the sand till I lent a hand 
toward gettin’ her off! You can bet real 
money that she’d rot there I ” 

After all that’s been done an’ said, I ain’t 
got it in my heart to do a friendly turn for 
Eliakim Doak,” Mr. Rowe added thought- 
131 


132 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

fully. ‘‘I’d heard considerable ’bout him 
before I agreed to fish aboard the ‘ Sally D.’ 
this season ; but I never allowed he, nor any 
other man for that matter, could be so down- 
right mean an’ ugly as he’d showed hisself. 
I’d had it in mind to leave him the very 
minute I could get some little part of what 
was due me for wages ; but when Sam stirred 
up things, I come to believe that dollars didn’t 
count very big when it meant stayin’ aboard 
the schooner any longer. My biggest hope 
now is that he’ll fioat her mighty sudden, for 
the sooner that’s been done the quicker we’ll 
get rid of him.” 

“ It won’t seem as if we’d really been made 
over inter a family till he has left the island 
for good an’ all,” Sam said emphatically, as 
he straightened up from his work of frying 
fish to look over his shoulder apprehensively 
toward the beach. “ It’s dead certain he’ll be 
on the watch for a chance to get hold of me 
once more, no matter how much Uncle Ben 
threatens, an’ I’ll have cold chills just so long 
as he hangs ’round here.” 

“ Don’t let Eliakim fret you, Sammy,” 
Uncle Ben, who had entered the shanty in 


^‘For Sale ” 


133 


time to hear the conclusion of the lad’s re- 
mark, said placidly as he seated himself at 
the breakfast table. I cut his claws when I 
went to the Port, an’ he knows he’d get inter 
mighty deep water with the law by interferin’ 
in your affairs.” 

Uncle Ben, understanding that such con- 
versation only served to increase Sam’s fears 
regarding what the owner of the Sally D.” 
might do, hastened to change the subject by 
outlining the labors of the day : 

I reckon we may as well get at the old 
pots, to put ’em in shape agin winter weather. 
Now we’ve started out as a reg’lar family, it 
stands us in hand to have some rule ’bout 
the day’s work. It strikes me that if Eli- 
akim is goin’ to loaf ’round here, as seems to 
be his idee, I’d better stop ashore to keep him 
down where he belongs. So s’posen all hands 
turn to an’ bring the traps up here where I can 
find ’em handy ? When that’s been done, the 
lobsterin’ crew better get onto their job. If 
they have as good luck as came to ’em yester- 
day, it’ll be a case of carryin’ a cargo to the 
Port mighty soon.” 

Sam, at this point, put an end to the con- 


]34 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

versation by setting before the hungry family 
the results of his labor as cook, and during the 
next ten minutes all hands were actively 
engaged puttin' in a stomach lininV' as 
Uncle Ben expressed it. 

Immediately the meal was finished Mr. 
Rowe and Tommy set about bringing up the 
pots which needed repairs, while Sam washed 
the dishes and otherwise put the shanty to 
rights. Uncle Ben lost no time in beginning 
his portion of the work, and while the fam- 
ily " were thus as industrious as bees, Captain 
Doak sat on the beach sulkily smoking his 
pipe. 

I declare, Sammy, I can't make out what 
Eliakim’s got on his mind," the old lobster 
catcher said, after getting well settled down to 
his task of knitting new heads for the traps. 

It don't look as if he counted on doin' any- 
thin' toward gettin' the ^ Sally ' outer the 
sand, an' yet he must have some scheme in 
his mind." 

P'rhaps he's waitin' to get hold of me, " 
the amateur cook suggested timidly. 

Then he's wastin' his time, for a fact. 
You'll be out in the dory with Reuben an’ 


“For Sale” 


‘35 


Tommy the best part of the day, an' I'll go 
bail he can't do you any harm there. When 
you get back, the family will all be close at 
your heels, so however evil-minded he may 
be, Eliakim won't be able to spin a thread." 

If so be the cook is done putterin' 'round, 
we'll look after the pots I " Mr. Rowe called 
cheerily from the outside as he and Tommy 
brought up the last load of traps, and Sam 
replied to what might be considered as an 
invitation, by hurrying out of the shanty. 

When the three launched Uncle Ben's dory 
in order to begin the real work of the day. 
Captain Doak yet remained where Sam had 
first seen him that morning, and, so far as 
could be told, he gave no heed whatever when 
the lads and his mutinous crew " passed to 
and fro near him. 

Do you allow he might be thinkin' of 
tryin' to get square with Uncle Ben ? " 
Tommy asked in a whisper when the dory 
was some little distance from the shore on her 
way to the nearest trap, and Mr. Rowe replied 
confidently : 

Don't get any sich a notion as that down, 
lad. Eliakim is sober enough now to realize 


136 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

that he^d be gettin’ inter the worst kind of hot 
water if he tried any funny games with the 
old man, ^specially after we would swear he 
was the only outsider left on the island when 
we pushed off. He couldn^t count on doin’ 
any mischief with the idee that nobody would 
know who’d done it. I reckon he’s hard up 
for cash to hire help in floatin’ the schooner, 
an’ havin’ nothin’ else to do, is kinder 
watchin’ the craft, with a crazy belief that she 
may slide off’er the sand without waitin’ for 
help.” 

Then the dory was over the first trap, and 
Tom, who insisted on serving a thorough 
apprenticeship at the business, was picking up 
the buoy rope with the gaff, doing it “ uncom- 
monly handy-like,” as Mr. Rowe said appro v- 
ingly. 

The take ” was not as large as on the day 
previous, but yet they found marketable lob- 
sters enough to satisfy any save the most avari- 
cious, and when finally the dory was pulled 
around the southern point of the island on 
her way to the car, where the results of the 
day’s work were to be left, Mr. Rowe said 
exultantly : 


“For Sale” 


»37 


“ I reckon the family have earned their 
keep an’ a leetle more this day. With lob- 
sters fetchin’ eighteen cents apiece wholesale 
we’ve scooped in good wages. But wait till 
Uncle Ben gets a schooner I Then you lads 
will be jumpin’ to in good earnest. What 
with saltin’ down, runnin’ fresh fish inter 
market, an’ ’tendin’ to the traps, it won’t be 
any very idle lives you’ll be leadin’.” 

Knockin’ ’round here don’t seem like real 
work,” Master Falonna replied, in a tone of 
content. “ But even if it was the hardest 
kind of a job we’d feel like bucklin’ down in 
great shape, so long as we’re workin’ to make 
a home for the family. Hello I It looks as if 
Cap’en Doak had gone at last I I can’t see his 
dory anywhere ! ” 

“ What’s that white thing on the * Sally’s ’ 
hull ? ” Mr. Rowe asked, curiously, turning in 
his seat to make certain Tommy was not mis- 
taken as to the absence of the unwelcome 
visitor. 

Neither of the lads could even make a guess 
as to the correct reply. They could see a 
small square of white on the hull of the 
stranded vessel, and it had, from a distance. 


138 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the appearance of a sheet of paper ; but since 
it was not probable Captain Doak would have 
taken the trouble to fasten anything of the 
kind on the “Sally/’ it seemed reasonable to 
suppose that something had been blown 
against the timbers by the wind, as Tommy 
suggested carelessly. 

When the lobsters had been thrown into 
the car and the fishermen were nearing the 
beach, Uncle Ben came out of the shanty 
to meet them, and as the boat’s bow struck the 
sand he cried, showing signs of nervous excite- 
ment for perhaps the first time in his life : 

“ Do you see that ’ere ? ” and he pointed 
to the square of white which had already 
attracted Mr. Rowe’s attention. 

“Ay; what is it?” Reuben asked care- 
lessly as he leaped over the gunwale into the 
water to aid in carrying the dory beyond 
reach of the tide. 

“ It’s a notice sayin’ that the * Sally D.’ 
will be sold at auction as she lays, this day 
week,” Uncle Ben replied with yet more 
show of excitement, and Mr. Rowe said 
curiously : 

“ Sold at auction, eh ? So that’s what Elia- 


‘‘For Sale’' 


139 


kim came over here for so early, eh ? Sellin’ 
her as she lays I Does that mean he believes 
she can't be floated?" 

I dunno ; he wouldn't make any talk to 
me 'bout it. After you left I tried to be neigh- 
borly — asked him to come inter the shanty an' 
have a cup of coffee ; but I might jest as well 
have invited a ragin' hyena. He made a good 
deal of rough talk, mixin' in some threats, an' 
after a spell tacked up that paper. Sold as 
she lays this day week ! I'm allowin' he 
couldn't raise the money to hire a tug, an' 
kinder flggered that the season wouldn't 
'mount to much, now that he had lost his 
crew an' the cook, so he's countin' on goin' 
outer the business. How much do you 
reckon she'll fetch, Reuben ? " 

“ Wa'al, the ^ Sally ' ain't any slouch of 
a schooner," Mr. Rowe said slowly and 
thoughtfully, as if giving due weight to the 
subject ; but neither is she so very young, 
an' it'll need a power of Axin' to put her inter 
what you might call first-class shape, for I'm 
doubtin' if Eliakim has spent a dollar on her 
these last five years. Then ag'in, she'll be 
mighty deep in the sand by this day week. 


140 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

an’ the tides won’t be runnin’ so high. Take 
it all in all, Eliakim will come out mighty 
well if he gets four hundred dollars, though 
if I had twice as much ag’in, an’ lived here on 
the island, I’d allow it would be a good bar- 
gain to offer it.” 

How much will it cost for a tug to pull 
her off?” 

‘‘ Wa’al, that’s as may be. It ain’t any 
ways certain it could be done in two days, or 
even four, an’ I allow there ain’t a man ’round 
here who’d take the job less’n a couple of 
hundred, with the chances of not finishin’ it 
even then. But it wouldn’t be any steamer 
for me, if I owned the schooner an’ lived 
here.” 

“ How would you go about it?” Uncle Ben 
asked quickly, and with no slight show of 
eagerness. 

“ First an’ foremost, I’d get out five or six 
of the biggest trees on this ’ere island, an’ 
peel off the bark so’s they’d answer for ways. 
Then I’d start in when the tide was goin’, an’ 
dig along one side till I’d made sich a slope 
that she’d reg’larly fall inter it — after I had 
the timbers fixed jest right. Then it would 


“For Sale” 


141 


be more of a job to get her shored up on the 
other side ; but it could be done if time didn’t 
count for too much.” 

I dunno as I jest catch your meanin’, 
Reuben,” Uncle Ben said in perplexity, and 
Mr. Rowe replied with a laugh : 

‘‘ I don’t reckon as I’ve made it very plain ; 
but the thing is mapped out all right in my 
head. I’ve been thinkin’ ’bout it ever since 
the ‘ Sally’ run her nose inter that sand, an’ 
am willin’ to agree that I could do it with the 
crew that’s here, in less’n six weeks. Of 
course, if a man had to hire them as was 
needed to help him, keepin’ ’em ’round loafin’ 
when the tide was so high that the work 
couldn’t be done, it would cost a pile of 
money ; but put this ’ere family at the job, 
an’ it would be easy.” 

An’ you’d be willin’ to pay eight hundred 
dollars for her, eh ? ” 

“ Look here. Uncle Ben,” and Mr. Rowe 
wheeled to look the old man suspiciously in 
the face. You aint pumpin’ me jest for the 
sake of talkin’, an’ that I’ll bet on ! What 
have yer got in your noddle ? ” 

“ Wa’al, Reuben, to tell the truth I’ve been 


142 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

wonderin’ if this ’ere wasn’t our chance to get 
a schooner for what little money we’ve got to 
spend. When I talked ’bout goin’ inter fishin’, 
I allowed it might be possible to buy a small 
craft at a song, ’specially if she was so old 
that it wouldn’t be safe to take her to the 
Banks. But here’s the ^ Sally ’ ; we know 
what she is — looks worse’n she really is, an’ 
a craft that would serve our turn to a hair. 
I’ve got eight hundred dollars, an’ that’s about 
all ” 

“ Take my word for it. Uncle Ben, you 
won’t have to put half of it out to get her ! ” 
Mr. Rowe cried excitedly, while Sam and 
Tommy shook hands with each other as their 
way of showing approbation of the old man’s 
scheme. She’s worth a good five hundred 
more to you, than to any other man, ’cause 
you can float her so much cheaper’n a fellow 
could who had to hire a crew for the work. 
Jest say that you’ll be willin’ to spend four 
hundred, an’ I’ll Agger my plan out so plain 
that it can be understood, an’ prove that we 
needn’t pay a cent for steamers or men.” 

I would believe the Lord had put it inter 
Eliakim’s head to sell her in order that we 


^‘For Sale ” 


H3 

might have a vessel of our own, if she could 
be bought at that price,'' Uncle Ben replied 
emphatically, and that he had been consider- 
ing the matter in all its bearings, was shown 
when he added : “ If we didn't have to pay 
more than you allow, then I'd have enough 
left to put her inter good sailin' trim, for she 
needs a thorough overhaulin'." 

Now look here. Uncle Ben," and Mr. 
Rowe spoke with so much earnestness as to 
be impressive, “ you can take my word for it 
that she's jest the same as yours this very 
minute, though if you take my advice, you'll 
get somebody at the Port to bid her in for 
you, 'cause I've got an idea that Eliakim 
wouldn't let you have her if he could help 
himself. Buy the schooner, an' if I can't get 
her afloat without askin' you to spend a cent 
of money. I'll sign articles to work for you 
without wages, till I'm as old as Methusalem ! " 


CHAPTER XII 


SHIPOWNERS 

It is only reasonable to suppose that the 
crew of the dory, after having been at work 
nearly all day at the oars or hauling in the 
wet ropes of the lobster traps, were raven- 
ously hungry, and yet never one of them gave 
a thought to food because of the excitement 
which possessed all at the mere suggestion 
that it might be possible for them soon to 
become shipowners. 

The family was, as Uncle Ben afterward ex- 
pressed it, “ all mixed up,’^ and night had fully 
come before the first move was made toward 
going into the shanty. Mr. Rowe insisted on 
showing exactly how he would set at work to 
get the Sally D.’^ on ways from which she 
could readily be launched after the necessary 
repairs had been made, and drew diagrams in 
the sand until that portion of the beach looked 
as if an immense flock of sea-gulls had been 
promenading to and fro. 

The result of all the conversation and dis- 
144 


Shipowners 145 

cussion was that Uncle Ben finally said in a 
decisive tone : 

'' I’ll agree to buy her as she lays, if the 
price don’t go over five hundred dollars. 
There ain’t any doubt in my mind but that 
she’s worth, as you figger, Reuben, twice that 
money, but we can’t yet tell how much must 
be spent before she’s seaworthy, an’ it wouldn’t 
do for this ’ere family to spend so much on 
the first cost that they couldn’t put her in 
shape afterward.” 

I’m allowin’ you won’t hear anybody bid 
over you,” Mr. Rowe said in a tone of con- 
viction ; that is, if Eliakim don’t suspicion 
you’re tryin’ to buy her. He’s so mighty 
sore ’cause you’ve taken Sammy an’ me inter 
the family, that he’d be willin’ to lose a good 
many dollars rather’n have her knocked down 
to you. Why not get Billy Mansfield to bid 
on her? Of course, I’m allowin’ he ain’t fig- 
gerin’ to get her for himself, an’ that you 
could soon find out. It looks reasonable he’s 
huntin’ for the chance to make an invest- 
ment, an’ Eliakim never’d think of smellin’ 
’round to see if he was on your side. We’ve 
got a good load of lobsters in the car. Uncle 


146 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Ben, an’ some dandies that we took outer the 
traps to-day, so what’s to hinder your goin’ 
over to the Port in the mornin’ ? We’ll ’tend 
to the work here all right, an’ you may stay 
till you’ve worn your welcome out, so far as 
business is concerned.” 

I believe I’ll go, Reuben,” the old lobster 
catcher replied after a brief time of thought. 
'' To tell the truth, I was kinder turnin’ over 
that same thing in my mind before you spoke. 
We can’t afford to take any risks jest now, an’ 
there’s no tollin’ how soon the weather may 
change so’s we can’t get over to the Port for 
quite a spell. I reckon we’d best toddle up 
to the shanty an’ get somethin’ to eat, seein’s 
how it’s pretty nigh time to tumble in for the 
night. It beats all how a chance like this 
mixes me up ! ” 

“ I don’t wonder at it. Uncle Ben,” Sam 
cried. The thought of havin’ the ‘ Sally D.’ 
for our own would mix anybody up ! If we 
can only get her ! ” and Sam ran swiftly toward 
the house to make ready the long-delayed 
meal, Tom following close at his heels in 
order to render such assistance as might be 
in his power. 


Shipowners 147 

On that particular night the cook might 
have made many blunders without any one^s 
being the wiser, so excited was every member 
of the family at the possibility of owning 
a vessel, and the old lobster catcher himself 
was not in any less a mixed ’’ frame of mind 
than Mr. Rowe, who was, as he said, so 
twisted ” that Sam was actually obliged to 
lead him to the table when the meal had 
been made ready, otherwise he might have 
gone supperless to bed. 

Again and again did Reuben explain how 
he proposed to launch the schooner without 
the aid of a steamer or machinery ; at least a 
dozen times Uncle Ben tried to make an esti- 
mate of how much money it would be neces- 
sary to spend after the vessel was afloat ; and 
whenever they could get a chance to join in 
the conversation, Sam and Tom speculated 
upon the income which might be earned by 
the family after an outfit for deep-sea fish- 
ing had been purchased. 

In fact, the sole topic of conversation, from 
the moment Uncle Ben had broached the sub- 
ject until nearly midnight, was regarding 
the possibilities of the future if the “Sally D.’’ 


148 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

should be purchased by the old lobster catcher, 
and when the master of the shanty declared 
he would not allow another word spoken until 
after daybreak next morning, Reuben Rowe 
confessed that he was more weary than he 
ever had been even after a hard day’s work 
at mackerel catching. 

Quite as a matter of course, it was the first 
thing the members of the family recalled to 
mind on awakening next morning, and Uncle 
Ben was hurried as never before, to the end 
that he might make a start for Southport at 
the earliest possible moment. 

“ I declare for it, if one or another of you 
hasn’t been luggin’ me around ever since I 
turned out,” he said half laughingly, half 
fretfully, when he clambered into the dory 
which Mr. Rowe had launched. A body 
would think you feared the Port might be 
moved away if I didn’t get there before dinner 
time, an’ yet I can’t see as there’s any sich 
dreadful hurry, seein’s the ‘ Sally ’ won’t be 
sold till yesterday week.” 

It’s time you got things fixed, ’cause we 
can’t afford to let sich a chance slip us,” Mr. 
Rowe said as he pushed the dory’s bow off 


Shipowners 149 

even before the old man had taken up the 
oars. 

I don’t allow there’ll be much chance of 
things slippin’ us, even if I ain’t there till 
afternoon. Look sharp to the island, an’ if 
so be Eliakim takes it inter his head to come 
before I get back, see to it you don’t say a 
word to rile him. He has sure brought all 
his trouble on his own head ; but I can’t help 
feelin’ bad for him, when I think he’s got to 
sell the ^ Sally ’ ’cause he hasn’t the money to 
put her in shape.” 

I believe he would lend that old pirate all 
the cash he’s got, if anybody asked him ! ” 
Tommy whispered irritably. This is the 
first time I ever believed a man could be too 
good.” 

Better look after the traps before you 
tackle another job,” Uncle Ben cried as he 
pulled the boat slowly away from the shore. 

I don’t believe, Reuben, that you’d better do 
anythin’ ’bout gettin’ trees for the ^ Sally’s ’ 
ways, as you talked of last night, for them as 
count their chickens too soon are apt to come 
to grief.” 

I’m only hopin’ he don’t come across 


150 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Eliakim Doak/’ Mr. Rowe said as he and the 
lads stood watching the old man while he 
rowed with vigorous strokes toward South- 
port. 

“ Why ? ” Tommy asked curiously. 

“ For fear of his gettin^ so tender-hearted 
that he'd tell him of the plan we’ve got for 
gettin’ hold of the ‘ Sally.’ ” 

Then Mr. Rowe, as if believing it was his 
duty to act as master of the island in the 
absence of Uncle Ben, insisted that the boys 
should lose no more time before beginning 
the work of the day. 

As can well be imagined, the purchase of 
the Sally D.” was all they could talk about, 
and even the fact that an unusually large 
number of marketable lobsters were found in 
the traps did not provoke any comment on 
their good fortune, because of the fulness of 
their minds with other matters. All three 
were on the lookout when, half an hour after 
sunset, the old lobster catcher hove in sight, 
and they were waiting on the beach while he 
was yet nearly a mile away. 

Yes, I’ve fixed everything as nearly as it 
can be done,” he said in reply to the eager 


Shipowners 151 

questions when he was come within hailing 
distance. William Mansfield will ^tend to 
the business, an’ he advises me to pay even six 
hundred dollars, if we can’t get the ' Sally ’ 
for less ; says he’ll be glad to give us credit for 
what we may need in the way of supplies. I 
ain’t willin’ to run up store bills, though I’ve 
given him his own head in the matter of a 
price. An’ now don’t say another word ’bout 
ownin’ the schooner, else we’re likely to neg- 
lect everythin’.” 

Because of this last remark neither Mr. 
Rowe nor the boys again spoke of that which 
lay so near their hearts, until the night before 
the day on which the auction was to be held 
in ’Squire Hubbard’s office in Southport, and 
then it was Reuben who said with ill-assumed 
carelessness : 

I’m allowin’ you’ll want to be off bright 
an’ early in the mornin’. Uncle Ben ?” 

Ay, that I shall, an’ if the days have been 
goin’ by as slow to you as to me, this has been 
a miserable long week for all hands. I allow 
it’s wrong to set one’s heart on a thing so 
strong as mine’s set on ownin’ the ^ Sally D.,’ 
but I couldn’t put it outer my mind for a 


152 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

single minute, an’ if we begin to talk ’bout it 
now, I shan’t get a wink of sleep.” 

Sam and Tom could have told him that 
they had literally counted the hours since it 
was known that the schooner was to be sold 
at auction, until it had come to be a firm be- 
lief with them that the family ” could not 
prosper on the lines laid down by Uncle Ben, 
unless they succeeded in buying the vessel. 

However, great as was their impatience for 
the result of the sale to be known, and eager 
though they were to hear that Uncle Ben had 
become a shipowner, neither gave words to 
that which was in his mind until the moment 
when the old lobster catcher sat in the dory, a 
full half hour before daylight, ready to begin 
his journey. Then Sam said in a tremulous 
voice : 

I hope you will get her. Uncle Ben ! ” 

“ So do I, from the bottom of my heart, lad 1 
It’s much the same as wicked for us to get so 
bound up in any one thing, an’ yet, no matter 
how well we was gettin’ on before she was of- 
fered for sale, it really seems as if my plan of 
havin’ a family would come to naught with- 
out her.” 


Shipowners 153 

“ Better not hang 'round here talkin'/^ Mr. 
Rowe said impatiently. “There's no tollin' 
when this wind may flatten completely out, 
an’ it won’t do for you to have a long 
pull while the weather promises to be so 
hot.” 

Then, without waiting for the word, Reuben 
pushed the dory's bow off, and it seemed to 
the boys as if the flrst real step toward 
the purchase of the “ Sally ” had been 
taken. 

“ It'll seem like a month before he gets 
back, even if he has a fair wind each way,” 
Tommy said with a long-drawn sigh, and Sam 
cried cheerily : 

“ Let's get to work, an' keep right at it, else 
the day will never go by.” 

Even Mr. Rowe followed this advice, and it 
is safe to say that a greater amount of work 
had never before been performed on Apple 
Island in the same length of time. When the 
sun began to go down into the west, however, 
every one kept his eyes flxed on the horizon 
in the direction of Southport, and Uncle Ben's 
dory looked to be no more than a tiny speck 
on the waters, when Reuben shouted : 


154 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ He’s coinin’, lads, an’ now it can’t be sich 
a dreadful long time before we know who 
owns the ^ Sally D.’ ! ” 

Surely the moments never passed more 
slowly, nor the dory never moved at such a 
snail’s pace before, and Uncle Ben was barely 
within hailing distance when, unable longer 
to restrain his patience, Sam cried : 

“ Who owns her. Uncle Ben ? Who owns 
the ‘Sally’?” 

Then in a shrill, but triumphant tone, came 
the reply : 

“ Uncle Ben’s family bought her for four 
hundred and seventy dollars, an’ I’ve got the 
papers in my pocket ! ” 

Instantly it was as if the three on the beach 
had taken leave of their senses. They shouted, 
sang, and Tommy even danced a hornpipe, 
after which Mr. Rowe, having learned all he 
wished to know, ran over to the stranded 
schooner, where he began making calculations 
for the work he had already determined 
should be begun on the morrow. 

The two boys acted much as if they wanted 
to hug the old lobster catcher when finally he 
stepped ashore ; at all events, they each took 


Shipowners 155 

one of his hands, shaking it so vigorously that 
he was forced to cry for mercy. 

I reckon IVe got a pretty good idee of how 
youVe been feelinV^ he said when the whirl- 
wind of their congratulations had subsided 
somewhat. Goin^ over to the Port I got all 
worked up over thinkin^ that p’rhaps some- 
body might jump in an’ offer more’n we could 
afford to pay, till I was jest as limp as a rag. 
We needn’t be worried very much, though, 
’cause nobody seemed to think she was worth 
a great deal after layin’ in the sand so long. 
’Siah Fernald allowed that he’d give four 
hundred, an’ that’s what he started her at. I 
said four-twenty-five, an’ he jumped ten more ; 
then I made it four-fifty, an’ he sung out 
‘ sixty, an’ that’s a good bit more’n she’s worth 
as she lays.’ I made it four-seventy, an’ the 
auctioneer hung on for another bid till I be- 
gun to think he didn’t want me to have her, 
when he shouted, ^ Sold to Uncle Ben John- 
son, an’ I wish him good luck with her.’ ” 

But I thought Mr. Mansfield was goin’ to 
buy her for you ? ” Sam cried. 

''So he was, lad, so he was. Leastways, 
that’s what he’d agreed to do ; but I got so 


156 The Cruise of the Sally D 

worked up over the business on the way across, 
that I clean forgot everythin^ except how much 
we wanted to own her an’ went to biddin’ on 
my own account.” 

Was Pirate Doak there ? ” Tommy asked. 

Ay, lad, an’ glum enough he looked. One 
spell I thought he was goin’ to break the sale 
up rather’n let me have her ; but by hook or 
by crook he held his tongue, after growlin’ out 
that whoever bought her would be called on 
to pay cash down. When the auctioneer said 
she was mine I got the money from William 
Mansfield, for I’d fixed things when I was in 
the Port before, so’s he could get six hundred 
outer the bank for me. Eliakim signed the 
bill of sale, but he never looked my way once. 
For a wonder he was sober, an’ so contrived to 
act pretty nigh decent. Now we’ll go over an’ 
have a squint at the family’s property I ” 


CHAPTER XIII 


WRECKING 

When Uncle Ben and the two boys arrived 
at the stranded schooner Mr. Rowe was there, 
bustling around as if it was his intention to 
begin the task of launching her at once, and 
Uncle Ben said with a laugh, which at the 
same time was much like a chuckle of satis- 
faction : 

Wa^al, Reuben, are you countin^ on havin^ 
her in deep water before we turn in ? ” 

I ain’t allowin’ to let any grass grow under 
my feet, an’ that’s a fact,” Mr. Rowe replied 
in a tone of decision. This ’ere is a longish 
job, an’ I want to get the whole thing figgered 
out in my head so’s we won’t have to do any 
of the work over ag’in.” 

Ain’t you in any way curious to know how 
I fixed up the trade ? ” 

I reckon news like that will keep, seein’s 
how the schooner is yours past all chance of 
Cap’en Doak’s backin’ out, eh?” 

157 


158 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ The money has been paid, an’ I’ve got a 
clean bill of sale in my pocket. William 
Mansfield looked things up, so^s to make cer- 
tain there wasn’t a mortgage or lien on her, 
consequently, seein’s how Eliakim signed the 
documents of his own free will, an’ was mighty 
glad to get hold of my four hundred and sev- 
enty dollars, I don’t see any show for him to 
back down on the bargain.” 

Come on board. Tommy, an’ see what she 
looks like ! ” Sam cried as he clambered up 
over the bow, and Master Falonna followed 
close at his heels, the older members of the 
family ” paying no attention to what the 
lads did, so intent was Reuben on explaining 
to Uncle Ben exactly how he proposed to be- 
gin work on the following morning. 

I’m wonderin’ if the boys can’t ’tend to the 
traps alone, to-morrow, so’s to give you an’ me 
all the time we want. It ain’t that there’ll be 
sich a dreadful sight of work ; but we’ll need 
to do a pile of figgerin’, an’ at that sort of 
thing two heads are better’n one.” 

'' I reckon they can get along all right,” 
Uncle Ben replied thoughtfully. Both of 
’em have tried it often enough, an’ that ’ere 


Wrecking 159 

Tommy takes hold as if he was born to be a 
lobster catcher. I was thinkin’, though, that 
there^d be a lot of things needed, an’ I’d be 
called on to go to the Port.” 

Unless you’ve got business of your own, I 
reckon you’d better stay ’round here one day 
so’s to make certain I don’t go astray on my 
calculatin’. You see, I didn’t get all the 
schoolin’ I mighter had, an’ when it comes 
to shakin’ up figgers, I ain’t over-strong.” 

“ Hello, Uncle Ben ! ” Sam cried from the 
deck of the schooner. Cap’en Doak has left 
all his things in the cabin — gun an’ everythin’. 
Do you s’pose he allowed to throw the whole 
lot inter the trade ? ” 

The ‘ Sally ’ was sold jest as she laid, with 
everythin’ aboard, ’cordin’ to what the auc- 
tioneer said, an’ he allowed there was con- 
siderable fishin’ gear in the hold : but it don’t 
seem likely Eliakim would leave sich as a gun 
to go inter the bargain.” 

“ Come up here an’ look your property over, 
so’s to know jest what you did buy,” and Sam 
passed down the bight of a rope that the old 
man might come up without too great exer- 
tion. 


i6o The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Mr. Rowe dropped his “ calculations ” in 
order to aid in the examination of the new 
property, and night was fully come before 
either member of the party had satisfied his 
curiosity. There were many articles in the 
cabin such as blankets, oilskins, cooking 
utensils, the rusty gun, and crockery, which 
would be of service to the “ family ” ; but the 
collection was so large that it did not seem 
possible Captain Doak had intended all should 
be sold with the schooner, and Uncle Ben said 
with a long-drawn sigh as he led the way over 
the rail : 

Dear, dear, I did hope that we^d seen the 
last of Eliakim ; but now I s^pose he^ll be frit- 
tering Tound here pretty nigh all summer, 
makin' mischief, an’ allowin’ he’s only gettin’ 
his things away.” 

If you bought the schooner jest as she 
lays, I wouldn’t trouble my head ’bout Elia- 
kim Doak. I’d tell him fiat-fiooted that what 
things was aboard belonged to the man who 
bought her, an’ that he’d get himself filled so 
full of holes that he could let hisself out for a 
milk-strainer, if he ever stepped foot on the 
island ag’in,” and Mr. Rowe shook his fist in 


Wrecking i6i 

the direction of Southport, as if by so doing 
he could frighten the man who might pos- 
sibly attempt to work mischief. 

We won’t have any words with Eliakim, 
Reuben,” Uncle Ben replied placidly. If he 
comes here claimin’ what’s in the cabin, I 
shall tell him to take it an’ be off ; but he must 
be made to understand that I won’t have him 
whifflin’ ’round this island any longer than’s 
necessary to pack his dunnage inter a boat. 
Now then, Sammy, if you’re goin’ to give us 
any supper this night, it’s time you began to 
stir yourself right lively.” 

Sam did not need to be reminded of the task 
to be performed. He was already in advance 
of the others on the way to the shanty when 
Uncle Ben spoke, and immediately quickened 
his pace to a run, followed closely by Tom. 

If it is true that “ too many cooks spoil the 
broth,” then the supper should have been 
ruined beyond redemption on this first night 
after the family had become shipowners, for 
each member insisted on bearing a hand,” 
until, as Sam declared, it was hard work to 
find the stove. 

Uncle Ben’s prayer was one of thanksgiv- 


i 62 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

ing, when supper had finally been made ready, 
and even a stranger might have understood 
from the words how rejoiced the old man was 
at having thus come into possession of the 
“ Sally for by the purchase of the vessel 
it seemed to him as if there could no longer 
be any question as to the success of his plan 
relating to the gathering of a family. 

There was very little sleeping done by the 
inmates of the shanty on this night. So great 
was the excitement that each one got up two 
or three times to look out of the door for some 
signs of a new day, and it yet lacked a full 
hour of sunrise when Uncle Ben said in a tone 
of positive relief : 

I reckon we may as well turn out, lads. 
There^s a good deal to be done before night- 
fall, an’ precious little chance that we can 
sleep while all hands are on edge ’bout the 
schooner.” 

Mr. Rowe ate breakfast hurriedly, as soon as 
it had been made ready, and then, in per- 
suance of the plan already formed in his 
mind, went, in company with Uncle Ben, to 
the grove of fir trees in the middle of the is- 
land, it having already been arranged that 



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Wrecking 163 

Sam and Tommy should attend to the traps 
alone. 

The boys were proud at thus being en- 
trusted with the labor, yet it would have been 
more to their liking had the task assigned 
them been on shore, for they were feverishly 
eager to see the work of launching the Sally 
D.” begun. As it was, they set about the job 
with a will, and it is safe to say that never be- 
fore had Uncle Ben^s traps been hauled and 
reset in such a short time. What pleased them 
better than all was the fact that the catch was 
unusually large, and Tom said in a tone of 
satisfaction as the last captive was thrown into 
the car : 

“ At this rate Uncle Ben won’t have to take 
very much more of his money out of the bank 
to pay for outfittin’ the schooner, ’cause the 
lobsters will pay all the bills. I’m glad we’ve 
got so many, an’ a good deal better pleased be- 
cause now we can turn to an’ help Mr. Rowe 
with his work. Let’s get ashore lively. I’ll 
help cook dinner, so’s not to be gettin’ any 
more of the fun than you.” 

When the boys went ashore they were dis- 
appointed at not seeing any evidences of Mr. 


164 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Rowe's work. They had expected much would 
have been done toward floating the schooner, 
and yet it was as if she had not been visited 
since they set out to haul the traps. 

Not until the two men had answered the 
summons to dinner did the lads understand 
the meaning of this seeming neglect, and then 
Mr. Rowe explained that until the timbers, of 
which the ways were to be made, had been cut 
and dragged to the shore nothing could be 
done. 

Well give you a job as soon as these ’ere 
vittles have been ate,” he said with a laugh. 

Uncle Ben an’ I have got three trees ready, 
an’ while you’re makin’ horses out of your- 
selves by haulin’ ’em to the beach we’ll trim 
up as many more.” 

Sam would have left the dishes unwashed 
on this day, in order to get at what seemed 
more important work the sooner ; but Uncle 
Ben insisted that the housework must go on 
as usual, whether the “ Sally ” was floated or 
not, therefore the shanty was set to rights, 
hastily but thoroughly, before the boys began 
their share of the wrecking. 

It was exhausting labor to get a pair of 


Wrecking 165 

wheels under each of the heavy timbers in turn, 
and drag it across the island, but neither Sam 
nor Tom counted the cost, so that their portion 
of the task was accomplished. 

When night came again Mr. Rowe an- 
nounced that it was his purpose to make a 
showin’ next day, promising that when the 
sun had set once more his companions should 
see that which would make plain his method 
of floating the schooner. 

IVe got timbers enough for the ways on 
the port side,” he said, an^ there wonT be 
need of cuttin^ more till she's on her beam- 
ends. The only question is whether we can 
do it in one tide ; for if we can't, all our work 
will be wasted.” 

If it wasn't for pullin' the pots. Tommy 
an' I could put in some mighty big licks at 
shovelin' sand,” Sam suggested, and much to 
his surprise Uncle Ben added placidly : 

I've been thinkin' of jest that same thing, 
lad. You see I ain't used to anythin' but 
flshin', an' can't do more'n half a man's work 
at other jobs, so I'm allowin' to pull the pots 
alone to-morrow, same's I've done year in an' 
year out ever since settlin' down here. That 


i66 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

will leave you boys free to help Reuben, an^ 
I’m countin’ on seein’ a big pile of work done 
when I get back.” 

“ That’s what will happen,” Tommy replied 
confidently, and then he began to help the 
cook that they might get to bed the earlier. 

There were no laggards in the shanty next 
morning. It would not be time to attend to 
the traps until about the middle of the fore- 
noon, because of the tide, therefore Uncle Ben 
took it upon himself to do the housework. 
Thus there was nothing to prevent the boys 
from getting at the task of wrecking as soon as 
breakfast was eaten, and the meal had been 
prepared before sunrise. 

A hard master was Reuben Rowe. His 
desire to see the “ Sally D.” in a seaworthy 
condition was so great that it seemed as if 
neither himself nor any other could do as 
much work in a given time as he wished to 
see done, and the consequence was that he 
drove his assistants to the utmost of their 
powers, until Sam laughingly declared that 
he begrudged the time it took them to draw 
their breath.” 

The plan was to excavate the sand from be- 


Wrecking 167 

neath the port side of the schooner, doing it 
in such a manner that the timbers could be 
set in place before she heeled over, and this 
was, as he said, quite a nice piece of work.’^ 
Uncle Ben shoveled industriously until it 
was time for him to visit the traps, and then 
said cheerily as he pushed off in the dory : 

I’m allowin’ to come back as soon as may 
be, an’ I’m not sorry to get a breathin’ spell. 
Pullin’ lobster-pots is child’s play ’longside of 
what Reuben expects his helpers to do, an’ I’ll 
be havin’ what you might call a vacation. 
Keep steady at it, lads, for that’s the way to 
win in a long race.” 

An’ you can make up your mind that 
we’re counting on that same thing ! ” Reuben 
replied emphatically. “After we get the 
schooner on what you might call ways, so’s 
there’s no chance of her sinkin’ any deeper in 
the sand, it’ll be all right to take things a 
little easier, but till that’s done it’s a case of 
hustle all the time.” 

Then Uncle Ben pulled off from the shore, 
and the three laborers shoveled sand as if 
their very lives depended upon it, until 
Reuben finally announced : 


i68 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ I’m thinkin’ half an hour more will see 
us well along with this job, an’ it hasn’t 
been done any too quick, for the tide is be- 
ginnin’ to come. If it catches us before the 
timbers are down all the work will go for 
nothin’, ’cause it wouldn’t take long for the 
sea to wash every grain of sand back where 
we’ve taken it from.” 

As he spoke the lads straightened up for an 
instant to relieve the painful strain on their 
backs, and at the same time Sam chanced to 
look seaward, when he saw that which caused 
him to cry in dismay : 

There comes a dory from Southport way I 
It can’t be anybody but Cap’en Doak, an’ he 
wouldn’t pull all the distance over here ex- 
cept it was to make mischief I ” 

There was an expression of anxiety on 
Reuben Rowe’s face as he gazed intently in 
the direction indicated by Sam, and after 
what seemed like a very long time of silence 
he said slowly, and with somewhat of menace 
in his tones : 

I’m allowin’ that’s him for sure, an’ there’s 
likely to be the biggest kind of a row if he 
tries to be funny. If we lay still half an hour 


Wrecking 169 

jest now, this day^s work is spoiled, an^ he 
shan’t be the man to waste our time like that I ” 
“ I wish Uncle Ben was here,” Sam said 
half to himself, and Reuben added : 

“ I ain’t certain but it’s a good idee he’s 
away. The old man is too soft-hearted to 
deal with the likes of Eliakim Doak, an’ I 
ain’t given that way a little bit, seein’s I 
know him root an’ branch.” 

What will you do if he tries to kick up a 
row ? ” Tommy asked anxiously, and one 
might have believed that he would be pleased 
to see the former owner of the Sally D.” 
meet with a person who was not very careful 
to avoid hurting his feelings. 

I’ll give him all he’s lookin’ for, an’ a little 
more ! Dig the best you know how, lads, an’ 
p’rhaps we can get the timbers in place before 
he makes the cove. Then we’ll have time to 
look after his case,” and Mr. Rowe set the ex- 
ample by throwing out sand from the trench 
in a regular stream. 


CHAPTER XIV 


A WAR OF WORDS 

I WANT you boys to know that I ain’t afraid 
of Eliakim Doak, when it’s only my own skin 
that’s to be hurt, nor of any four men like 
him,” Mr. Rowe said as he continued to throw 
up the sand. “ It’s only ’cause I’m afraid he 
may contrive to keep us on edge till the tide 
comes up an’ puts things in bad shape. If 
we can get these ’ere timbers down ship- 
shape, before he pulls in. I’ll be ready to give 
him a full dose. Jump to it, lads, for every 
shovelful counts jest now I ” 

There was little need to urge the boys to 
further exertions ; they could understand full 
well how important it was, unless they were 
willing to lose what had already been done, 
to push the work to the utmost, and never 
for a single instant did they even look sea- 
ward, although both were curious to know 
how rapidly the enemy was approaching. 

It was fortunate for Uncle Ben’s “ family ” 
170 


A War of Words 


171 


that Captain Doak did not take it into his 
head to leave Southport any earlier in the 
day, for he was nearly half a mile from the 
cove when, with a cry of triumph, Mr. Rowe 
laid the last timber in place, as he said 
grimly : 

“ Now let the old heathen come ; we’re 
ready for him,” and he literally scraped the 
perspiration from his face. 

“ It’ll be quite a spell yet before he gets 
here,” and Tom straightened himself slowly, 
as if with difficulty after remaining in a bent 
position so long. What I’m keen to know 
is, how much better off we are after puttin’ 
these logs down? The schooner lays jest as 
she did before.” 

Ay, lad, an’ lucky for you she didn’t heel 
over while we were workin’ so far under the 
hull. I’ll admit that it don’t look now as if 
we’d done very much for her comfort ; but 
after the tide comes up, an’ the water 
swashes back an’ forth for a spell, you’ll see 
her lay over like a tired man, an’ unless I’m 
way out of my reckonin’, she’ll be restin’ the 
biggest part of her weight on the logs by 
mornin’. Then it’s only a matter of workin’ 


172 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the other side like this. After that’s been 
done, we know for a fact that she can’t settle 
any further inter the sand, an’ it’ll only need 
a couple of smooth planks with a few wedges, 
to slide her off when we’re ready.” 

I hope it’ll work ; but I can’t figger out 
how,” Sam said in perplexity, and before Mr. 
Rowe’s mirth, which had been aroused by the 
expression on the boy’s face, was abated. Cap- 
tain Doak ran his dory up on the shore within 
a dozen yards of where the Sally D.” lay. 

What’s goin’ on here ? ” he cried angrily, 
and as if it surprised him to see any one at 
work near the schooner. 

We’re tryin’ to stop the old hooker from 
buryin’ herself in the sand,” Mr. Rowe replied 
without any show of anger ; but Tom noted 
with no little satisfaction that the former 
“ crew ” of the Sally ” held his shovel firmly 
in his right hand, as if thinking it might be 
needed for a weapon. 

What right have you to be foolin’ ’round 
her ? ” and Captain Doak rose to his feet 
threateningly, whereupon Mr. Rowe stepped a 
few paces nearer the bow of the vessel to where 
he could clamber on board without difficulty. 


A War of Words 


173 


I haven’t turned her over to Ben Johnson, 
an’ p’rhaps I shall change my mind ’bout 
lettin’ her go, ’specially at the ridiculous price, 
he bid.” 

You gave him a clear bill of sale 1 ” Mr. 
Rowe cried angrily, and the two boys ranged 
themselves on either side of him, as if believ- 
ing they would soon be called upon to take 
part in defending the property of the 
family.” 

I may have been crazy enough to give a 
bill of sale, but till I say the word he ain’t got 
any right to fool ’round her. An’ I warn you 
here an’ now. Rube Rowe, that if you so much 
as lay your hand on that craft I’ll sue you for 
trespass, if so be I ain’t on the spot to knock 
your two eyes inter one ! ” and Captain Doak 
stepped out from the dory in what both Sam 
and Tom thought was a threatening manner. 

“ Hold on, Eliakim Doak, an’ don’t take 
the chance of makin’ the biggest mistake of 
your life ! ” Mr. Rowe said impressively. 

You haven’t got old Uncle Ben here to deal 
with. I don’t keep soft words for sich as I 
know you to be. I’m in charge of this ’ere 
island, likewise the schooner that has been 


174 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

bought an^ paid for, an^ it'll be the sickest 
day's work you ever did to kick up a row jest 
now. What'er you here for, anyhow ? " 

I came to get my things outer the cabin, 
an' to settle on whether I’d let her go at any 
price ” 

The last part of it has been settled already, 
an' that you know very well, Eliakim Doak, 
'less you're willin' to admit you're a bigger 
dummy than I ever allowed you was. Uncle 
Ben has said that you could have what things 
are in the cabin, though if I'd bought the 
schooner as she lays, it would be a long, cold 
day before you'd take the value of a fish-scale 
away from her." 

“ We'll see 'bout that part of it," said Cap- 
tain Doak. 

'' We've seen about it already ! I'll throw 
out what stuff Uncle Ben allowed you could 
take away, an' then you’ll make a quick move 
from this 'ere island, or I’ll know the reason 
why," and with the agility of a monkey Mr. 
Rowe clambered aboard the stranded vessel. 

Captain Doak stepped forward as if about 
to make an attack, but seeing Sam and Tom 
near the bow with shovels ready to be used 


A War of Words 


175 


as weapons, he wisely concluded to remain 
on the beach, contenting himself by shout- 
ing : 

'' Vll have the law on you if a single thing 
in that ^ere cabin is touched ! 

In reply to this threat came a shower of oil- 
skins, followed by the rusty musket and a 
quantity of battered tin dishes. 

Shove that stuff aboard your craft, an’ I’ll 
send down some more,” Mr. Rowe cried with 
a grin as he leaned over the rail. It’s a 
certain thing, Eliakim, that you ain’t to be 
allowed to board this ’ere schooner, for I 
wouldn’t trust you as far as I could sling a 
mule by the ear, if there was any chance to 
do mischief ! ” 

“ I’ll stay where I am till I get good an’ 
ready, an’ you ain’t the man who can make 
me move ! I’ve got rights that I’m goin’ to 
have ” 

“ The only rights you’ve got ’round here is 
to get inter that dory, an’ keep beyond low 
water mark ! ” Mr. Rowe cried as if in a fury of 
rage, and the two lads were actually frightened 
when they saw him leap over the rail with an 
oar raised over his shoulder threateningly. 


176 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ Now take that dunnage inter yer boat, or 
get in without it, else ” 

Reuben ! Reuben ! came in placid tones 
from over the water, and, looking up, the lads 
saw Uncle Ben pulling slowly toward the 
island. 

If he hadn^t got back quite so soon I de- 
clare I’d have damaged you some with this 
oar ! ” Mr. Rowe cried savagely, as he swung 
the weapon menacingly in front of Captain 
Doak until he could do no less than beat a 
slow retreat toward his boat. 

Then the war of words ceased until the old 
lobster catcher ran his dory ashore and 
stepped out on the beach as if it was the most 
natural thing in the world to see Captain 
Doak on Apple Island. 

“ Have you been havin’ any trouble with 
the cap’en, Reuben ? ” he asked, and Mr. 
Rowe, so angry that the words came like a 
torrent, replied by repeating what the former 
owner of the Sally D.” had said. 

There is no reason, Reuben, why you 
should get so disturbed over it, for the sale 
was open an’ legal. Eliakim took from me 
the money I bid, and gave a lawful bill of sale. 


A War of Words 


177 


It is only right that he should have what be- 
longings are in the cabin, for I didn^t count 
them as goin^ with the schooner/^ 

Wa'al, he’s got ’em, hasn’t he ? ” Mr. 
Rowe cried, pointing to the assortment of 
goods on the sand. I don’t allow that he 
shall step his foot on board the ^ Sally,’ for no- 
body knows how much mischief sich as he’d 
be willin’ to do when he’s in one of his ugly 
tantrums.” 

I’m not allowin’ he shall go on board,” 
Uncle Ben said in such a firm tone that the 
boys looked at him in surprise. He can 
name over what he claims, an’ then leave the 
island, else I’ll start for the Port. What’ll be 
done after I get there he knows full well.” 

Captain Doak appeared to be quite as much 
surprised as were the boys ; but it was not in 
his nature to give in beaten until absolutely 
obliged so to do, and he cried hotly : 

I’ll do as I please ” 

We’ll see about that I ” and Reuben ad- 
vanced with upraised oar. ** I didn’t think it 
was in Uncle Ben to take sich a strong stand ; 
but it seems that he’s got considerable back- 
bone after all, which is apt to be the way with 


178 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

these soft-spoken folks. You’re to leave, an’ 
do it mighty quick, without another word, or 
I’ll let this oar drop ! ” 

To the surprise of all, even including Mr. 
Rowe, Captain Doak selected a few articles 
from the collection on the beach and threw 
them into his dory without speaking, but after 
pulling from the shore a few strokes, he 
stopped to say : 

“ Don’t think you’ve seen the last of me, 
Ben Johnson. I count the * Sally ’ as belongin’ 
to me as much as she ever did, an’ from this 
out I’ll make it my business to see that you 
don’t swell ’round in her, lordin’ it over 
me ! ” 

No one wants to lord it over you, Elia- 
kim,” Uncle Ben replied, quietly. “ I would 
like to be friends with you, an’ have tried 
from the first to lend a hand when you was 
needin’ it ” 

I s’pose that’s what you was doin’ when 
you took my cook from me ? ” the captain 
roared. 

What I did then was to help a poor little 
orphan who was bein’ abused, an’ it was no 
more than my duty.” 


A War of Words 


179 


“ Fine words butter no parsnips with me ! 
I’ll show you an’ that mutinous hound of a 
Rube Rowe what comes to them that cross 
Eliakim Doak’s path ! ” and with this threat 
the captain rowed away, the little group on the 
island watching until he was beyond ear-shot, 
when Mr. Rowe said thoughtfully : 

“ I never had no great idee that Eliakim 
ever hankered much after the truth, but when 
he promises to work mischief, I’m believin’ 
he’ll keep his word.” 

“ It’s childish for us to think that he can 
do anythin’ to harm us,” Uncle Ben replied, 
as he pushed off the dory again, preparatory 
to carrying his morning’s catch to the car. 

“ It would be childish to give him a fair 
chance,” Mr. Rowe cried. “ I’m not allowin’ 
that he’ll cut any great swarth while the 
‘ Sally ’ is high an’ dry on the sand ; but once 
she’s afloat you know as well as I that a man 
like Eliakim could do her so much harm in 
one hour that we couldn’t repair it in a 
year.” 

We won’t cross any bridges until we come 
to them,” the old man said cheerily, as he 
pulled away, and Reuben added in a low 


i8o The Cruise of the Sally D. 

tone, not caring that Uncle Ben should hear 
him : 

“ I allow there^s a good deal of sense in that 
old saying but there are times when a man 
better keep his weather eye peeled to see that 
sich as Eliakim don’t build bridges for him to 
cross. We’ll put aboard this plunder that 
Doak didn’t take away with him, an’ then get 
dinner, for I’m countin’ we’ll have a spell at 
the pump this afternoon. There’s a good bit 
of water aboard the ‘ Sally,’ an’ it must be 
well out of her before we can caulk around 
the stern-post.” 

When Uncle Ben came ashore from the 
lobster car dinner was nearly ready, and while 
washing his hands and face he announced the, 
result of his morning’s work. 

Things are surely cornin’ our way. 
Here we are takin’ more lobsters than 
I’ve seen come out of the pots this many a 
day, an’ jest when we’re needin’ the money to 
buy a new outfit for the ‘ Sally.’ ” 

Much good the new outfit will do her if 
Eliakim’s goin’ to hang ’round watchin’ for a 
chance to put a spoke in the wheel,” Mr. Rowe 
grumbled. 


A War of Words i8i 

'' There, there, Reuben, don't keep frettin’ 
when we've got so much to be thankful for. 
Eliakim's bark is worse'n his bite, an' that 
I've known this many a day." 

At this point the conversation was inter- 
rupted by Sam's announcement that dinner 
was ready, and, much to Tommy's surprise, 
Uncle Ben's prayer was mostly a plea for Cap- 
tain Doak, that he might be brought to see the 
errors of his ways. 

While eating, the old man asked concerning 
the work that had been done during his ab- 
sence, and when Reuben had made a detailed 
report, he said : 

I'm allowin' that you'll be wantin' me to 
make another voyage to the Port mighty soon, 
Reuben ? " 

It would be a good thing if we had a bale 
of oakum an' a barrel of tar this very day. 
We're goin' to pump her out after dinner, an' 
oughter be able to stop the worst of the leaks 
as soon as that's been done." 

“ I'll get off bright an' early in the morn- 
in'. Sammy an' Tommy can tend to the 
pots, an' you'll have to shift as best you can 
alone till they have done the work. I'm al- 


i 82 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

lowin^ there are some things the cook is 
needin’, so we’ll write ’em all down an’ I’ll 
spread myself buy in’ stuff.” 

Sam did not wait to finish his dinner before 
making out a list of what was needed in the 
way of stores, and Mr. Rowe called for several 
tools that would be required in the work of 
wrecking, all of which promised to make up a 
busy day of shopping. 

“ I reckon I’ll be gone till nigh nightfall, 
if I buy all that stuff,” Uncle Ben said, with a 
chuckle of pleasure. “ It’s mighty lucky 
lobsters are fetchin’ a big price, else I might 
have to bust the bank by drawin’ out all my 
money.” 

Mr. Rowe was not inclined to linger long at 
table, or spend very much time in conversa- 
tion while there remained so great an amount 
of work to be done on the “ Sally,” and as soon 
as Tom and Sam could wash the dishes he in- 
sisted on their following him to the beach. 

A full hour after sunset did the entire 

family ” labor on their vessel, and when 
finally they went to the shanty, tired to the 
verge of exhaustion, it was with the pleasing 
knowledge that very much had been accom- 


A War of Words 183 

plished since sunrise. The largest leak, which 
was near the stern-post, as Reuben had 
guessed, was stopped as well as it could be 
with oiled rags, and the “ Sally D.” had al- 
ready settled over to port on the timbers. 

I’m allowin’ that by to-morrow night, 
even though you lads are to loaf half the time 
foolin’ with the lobster traps, we’ll have things 
in sich shape that she can’t go any further in- 
ter the sand, no matter how strong the wind 
may blow from the s’uthard.” 


CHAPTER XV 


A NEW MEMBER 

When Sam was first told that he would be 
allowed to live on Apple Island with Uncle 
Ben, he mentally promised that he would be 
the first up and at work in the morning, to 
the end that the old lobster catcher might gain 
more rest than had been possible when, as he 
himself expressed it, he was captain, mate, 
and all the crew down to the cook ” ; but on 
this day after the first real work of wrecking 
had been done on the “ Sally D.,'' the lad's 
eyes were so heavy with slumber that he con- 
tinued to sleep even while Mr. Rowe and Un- 
cle Ben were cooking breakfast. 

When, finally, he did awaken, the odor of 
coffee and fried fish came to his nostrils, and 
for the merest fraction of time he believed it 
was all a dream ; but an instant later he was 
on his feet, thoroughly wide awake, as he said 
with somewhat of reproach in his tone : 

Why didn't you waken me, Mr. Rowe ? 

184 


A New Member 


185 

It isn’t fair for you an’ Uncle Ben to be doin’ 
my work when I show myself such a sleepy- 
head. It would have served me right if you’d 
dragged me out by the heels ! ” 

You put in a hard day’s work yesterday, 
Sammy,” Uncle Ben said in a kindly tone. 

It stands to reason that you was tired out, 
an’ it seemed the biggest kind of a pity to 
break in on what you was enjoyin’ so much, 
’specially since my eyes were open so wide that 
I couldn’t have brought ’em together ag’in no 
matter how hard I tried. I declare for it, I’m 
allowin’ myself to get wrought up over ownin’ 
the ‘ Sally ’ as bad as Deacon Stubbs was when 
’Bije Fernald gave him a foxhound ! The 
idea of what I’ve got to buy at the Port to-day, 
an’ how the schooner will look after we get 
her in sailin’ trim once more, has kinder 
turned my head. Give Tommy a shake, Sam, 
an’ as soon as you boys have washed up, we’ll 
have breakfast.” 

All this while Tom had been sleeping noisily 
yet peacefully, but he was aroused to con- 
sciousness of his surroundings very speedily 
after Sam obeyed Uncle Ben’s command, and 
was no less surprised than had been his com- 


i86 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

rade, on finding the breakfast ready for eat- 
ing. 

The old lobster catcher seemed to think it 
comical because he had been able to cook 
breakfast without arousing either of the lads, 
and evidently enjoyed the surprise, therefore 
very slight complaint was made by the regular 
cook, although he felt that in some way, he 
was not just certain how, a wrong had been 
done him. 

Uncle Ben lost no time, once the meal had 
been eaten, in setting out on the voyage, and 
indeed it was necessary to start early if he 
counted on doing all his shopping and return- 
ing before dark. 

“ If it should so happen, which I donT think 
likely, that Eliakim takes it inter his head to 
come over here to-day, don’t get up a row with 
him, ’cause he ain’t worth it,” the old man 
said warningly as he pushed off the dory and 
took up the oars. 

“ But you don’t count that we’re to stand 
’round with our fingers in our mouths an’ let 
him do whatever comes inter his ugly head, 
do yer ? ” Mr. Rowe asked sharply. 

I’m allowin’ that you’ll look after things 


A New Member 187 

same as if they was your own, an’ they really 
are so long as you’re members of the family. 
What I mean is, that you are to get along 
without callin’ names or otherwise talkin’ 
rough.” 

All right. I’ll see to that part of it,” 
Reuben replied grimly. I’d thump his head 
with an oar an’ not open my mouth.” 

Now, now, Reuben, remember that a soft 
answer turneth away wrath.” 

It may with some, but not sich as Elia- 
kim Doak. I’m noticin’ that your answers 
wasn’t so soft yesterday.” 

He’d got all haired up when I come ashore, 
an’ wasn’t in the mood to listen except to 
somethin’ harsh.” 

Well, don’t get to worryin’. Uncle Ben ; 
I’ll see to it that we don’t have a big row, 
though if one does come, you can make up 
your mind Eliakim won’t want to neighbor on 
Apple Island for quite a spell, ’cause I’ll do 
the job up brown.” 

Uncle Ben was forced to content himself 
with this promise, because he could not well 
afford to spend any more time discussing the 
matter. He had a long voyage before him. 


i88 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

with no slight amount of work to be done 
after arriving at Southport, and it was neces- 
sary he took full advantage of the morning 
breeze. 

It would not be time for the boys to haul 
the traps until nearly noon, therefore Mr. 
Rowe set them to work digging sand on the 
starboard side of the Sally,’ ^ and when it was 
time to look after the pots all the timbers had 
been put in place. 

Now I reckon we can afford to take our 
time,” Mr. Rowe said in a tone of satisfaction, 
as he wiped the perspiration from his face. 
“ The * Sally ’ won’t sink any deeper, an’ we 
can get at the job of puttin’ her inter proper 
trim ’cordin’ as the fancy strikes us.” 

Do you believe she can be launched with- 
out hiring a steamer ? ” Tommy asked incred- 
ulously. 

Of course she can I though we don’t allow 
to do anythin’ in that line till the hull is 
sound, an’ the ^ Sally ’ less of a sieve than she 
has been these two years past. But there’s no 
call for you to stand ’round here chinnin’. 
It’s time to look after the traps, an’ when you 
get back I’ll have a few chores that you can do.” 


A New Member 


189 

Mr. Rowers chores were what other peo- 
ple might have called downright hard work, 
as the lads learned when they came back from 
the traps, feeling unusually jolly because the 
catch had been large ; but they did not com- 
plain, for however severe the labor it was much 
the same as play when they thought of what 
was to come after the last blow had been 
struck. 

Bread and butter with plenty of clear, cold 
water to wash it down served as the noon- 
day meal, and it was thus frugal because Mr. 
Rowe had suggested that the cook prepare a 
regular dinner at night, when Uncle Ben 
would be there to enjoy it. 

Fortunately, Captain Doak did not take it 
into his head to visit Apple Island that day 
and the chores were not done until late in 
the afternoon, when Mr. Rowe said with the 
air of one who is content with what he has ac- 
complished : 

I reckon we can afford to knock off now, 
lads, for we Ve put in a good many hours since 
Uncle Ben began hustlin’ ’round this mornin’. 
Tommy an’ I’ll catch a nice mess of cunners 
while Sam is gettin’ ready to fry ’em. By the 


190 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

time supper’s ready the old man oughter be 
here/^ 

Soon all three were so intent on these duties 
that they gave no heed to anything else, 
and before either had thought of watch- 
ing for Uncle Ben’s return, the dory was at 
the mouth of the little harbor. It was Sam 
who made the discovery that the old lobster 
catcher was so near, and he announced the 
fact in a tone of surprise : 

“ Here’s Uncle Ben, an’ we ain’t half ready 
for him ! My ! but he has got a full cargo, 
an’ Say, who is that with him? ” 

Beuben and Tommy, having caught as 
many cunners as would be needed for supper, 
were cleaning them when Sam cried out, and 
after one glance seaward Mr. Rowe shouted : 

“ Now what’s in the wind ? Do you reckon 
he had to find somebody to help pull the dory?” 

“ If that’s so, he wasn’t very fussy ’bout 
what he took. The chap in the bow looks as 
if he had been livin’ on wind puddin’ for the 
last couple of weeks ! ” Tommy said, speaking 
in a low tone lest the words be overheard, for 
already was the bow of the dory grating on the 
beach, 


A New Member 


191 


The cause of these comments was a very 
small and very hungry looking boy who was 
perched up on the cargo, which had been piled 
two or more feet above the gunwale, and was 
now staring at the scene before him with eyes 
that seemed many sizes too large for his thin 
face. 

“ Now why do you s^pose the old man has 
brought home that little monkey ? Mr. Rowe 
said half to himself, making no move toward 
going to the shore, and Sam, a moment later, 
cried as if believing he had made an impor- 
tant discovery : 

“ I know what’s up I Uncle Ben has found a 
new member of the family ! Come on, let’s go 
down an’ see him. Say, but ain’t he been 
playin’ in hard luck ! ” and Sam, followed by 
Tommy and Mr. Rowe, ran at full speed to the 
shore. 

I was kinder wonderin’ why you didn’t 
lend a hand at unloadin’ this boat,” Uncle 
Ben said laughingly as he scrambled ashore 
with the little stranger in his arms. Kinder 
s’prised at seein’ this present I’ve brought yer, 
eh ? Wa’al, what do you think of that ? ” 
and the old man gently dropped the strange 


192 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

boy, who looked almost like a baby, on the 
sand. 

Who is he? Where^d you find him?'^ 
Sam cried, going shyly up to the stranger, who 
stood silent and motionless, as if not quite de- 
cided whether to laugh or cry. 

His name is Joey Sampson ; he’s been 
livin’ out at the poor farm, an’ the s’lectmen 
got so mighty economical they cooked up the 
idee Southport couldn’t afford to feed him any 
longer, so was countin’ on sendin’ the poor 
little creeter down to St. Johns, where some- 
body said his father’s cousin lived. Never 
tried to find out if that ’ere cousin would take 
him in or not, but jest allowed to ship him off. 
I told ’em I’d adopt the child as a new mem- 
ber of my family, an’ they was mighty glad 
to get rid of him. Wa’al, Joey, what do you 
think of Apple Island ? ” 

It’s a pretty place, sir,” the little stranger 
said in a tearful voice, and straightway Sam’s 
heart went out to him. 

It’s better than pretty, Joey,” he said, 
taking the little fellow in his arms, for, as Mr. 
Rowe afterward declared, he wasn’t bigger’n 
a shirt button.” If the only home you’ve 


A New Member 


193 


had has been the poor farm, you’ll soon come 
to know that you was mighty lucky when 
Uncle Ben run across your track. Here’s 
Tommy, an’ Mr. Rowe, an’ me, who hadn’t any 
home till we were given the chance to stay 
here, an’ it’s a mighty comfortable place, with 
the best man for the head of the family that 
ever lived, as you’ll find out before bein’ here 
many days.” 

“ There, there, Sammy,” Uncle Ben inter- 
rupted, have done with your fairy tales. 
Take Joey up to the shanty, an’ the rest of us 
will tote what of the stulS* needs to go under 
cover. Supper ready ? ” 

“ It will be in five minutes, for then the 
biscuit’ll be done,” and away Sam ran toward 
the shanty, petting Joey as if he was really 
the baby he looked to be. You’ll get on 
here famously,” he said when they were come 
to the building, for it’ll only be a case of 
settin’ still an’ seein’ yourself grow fat. Then 
when our schooner is afloat what great times 
you’ll have fishin’ ! ” 

Do you s’pose your Uncle Ben will let me 
stay here very long ? ” the little lad asked 
wistfully. 


194 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ Of course he will, else you wouldn’t have 
been brought here. He’s buildin’ up a family 
out of jest sich lonesome boys as you an’ me, 
an’ you’ve come here to be part of it. Camp 
down in my bunk while I look after the sup- 
per, for I’m the cook, an’ keep on thankin’ 
your lucky stars that Uncle Ben happened to 
see you at the right time. How long have 
you been at the poor farm ? ” 

Ever since I can remember.” 

“ Did you like it out there? ” 

It wasn’t very nice,” Joey replied timidly, 
and Sam added emphatically : 

“ I’ll bet it wasn’t, though there was one 
spell when I thought it would be a good deal 
better than livin’ aboard the ^ Sally D.’ with 
Cap’en Doak ugly a good deal more’n half 
the time. Did you ever see that cousin down 
in St. Johns ? ” 

I never knew there was one till Deacon 
Stubbs said it was a shame a big boy like me 
should be eatin’ the bread of idleness, when I 
had blood relations that were next door to 
rollin’ in luxury.” 

Well, was you idle ? ” 

I did everything they told me — lugged in 


A New Member 


J95 

the wood, split the kindlings, drove the cows 
to pasture, an' brought in the water " 

“ An' that's what they call eatin' the bread 
of idleness ! " Uncle Ben cried as he entered 
with his arms full of packages, which he laid 
in one of the bunks, and, taking Joey in his 
arms, seated himself by the window. “ Look 
out there at our schooner, sonny boy I Some 
day she'll be layin' at anchor, as trim a craft 
as ever floated, an' then you shall walk the 
quarter-deck like any cap'en, while we do the 
drudgery. You're one of the family now, 
Joey, an' I'm countin' that all hands will 
come to love you as much as I've found time 
to do already. You're a wee mite of a thing, 
an' it's a baby we've been needin' to make 
things ship-shape, so that's the berth you've 
dropped inter. Now then, Sammy, get them 
biscuit out, for I reckon our Joey is mighty 
sharkish, seein's he hasn't had any dinner, 
an' come to think of it, neither have I, for 
that matter." 

Mr. Rowe came into the shanty on tiptoe, 
as if thinking he must be very quiet while 
Uncle Ben was holding the ^‘baby," and 
Tommy, who followed him, said laughingly : 


196 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

You^d think Joey was a regular kid, by 
the way Mr. Rowe moves ’round. But say, 
don’t it make things look better to see sich a 
little shaver here I ” 

Joey would have been very hard to please 
if the greeting he received in his new home 
had not soothed his heart, and by the time 
Uncle Ben made a “ high chair ” by putting a 
buoy on one of the stools and covering it with 
an old fish-net, he appeared to be in the best 
of spirits. 

“ A month of this kind of livin’, with 
plenty of fresh air an’ nobody to talk ’bout 
the bread of idleness, will make a new man 
of you, Joey,” Uncle Ben said when the tiny 
lad, unable to swallow another mouthful, 
slipped down from the fish-net cushion. ‘^I’m 
allowin’ to set here in stormy weather, when 
there’s nothin’ to be done outside, an’ jest 
watch you grow fat,” 


CHAPTER XVI 


THE BABY ” 

If, when Uncle Ben started for the Port on 
the trip when he found Joey Sampson, Sam 
and Tom had been told that anything could 
happen on Apple Island which might turn 
the least little portion of their attention from 
the schooner they would have said indig- 
nantly that it was not possible, and yet not 
only the two lads, but even Mr. Rowe, soon 
came to think that the new, tiny member of 
the family was more interesting than the 
work of wrecking. 

On the morning after Joey’s arrival Uncle 
Ben insisted on being allowed to wash the 
dishes and set the house to rights, claiming 
that it might be better for Sam and Tom to 
spend all the time possible, before the hour 
came for hauling the traps, helping Mr. Rowe, 
and Sam said almost jealously, when he fol- 
lowed the others out of the shanty very shortly 
after daybreak : 


197 


198 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ I really believe Uncle Ben is willin’ to do 
the housework this mornin’, so’s he can watch 
Joey ! But say, I don’t blame him a little 
bit, for that baby is mighty cute I ” 

‘‘ It’s goin’ to be a big thing for us to have him 
’round here,” Tom replied reflectively. “ Jest 
as soon as Uncle Ben gets through foolin’ with 
him we’ll take the little shaver out in the dory 
to let him see us haul in the lobsters ” 

“ You won’t do any sich risky thing ! ” Mr. 
Rowe said, emphatically. Don’t get the wild 
idee inter your heads that you can take 
the baby out in a dory ’less Uncle Ben or 
I go with you. ’Cordin’ to the looks of the 
schooner, we haven’t got to keep so terribly 
sharp at the work of floatin’ her, now we’ve 
put the timbers in place, an’ it may be that I 
can go out with you a spell this forenoon, so’s 
to let Joey see what lobsterin’ is like.” 

If one could judge by the expression which 
came over the faces of the lads when Mr. Rowe 
thus made it plain that he intended to have a 
full share of the baby’s ” company, they were 
not particularly well pleased with this an- 
nouncement, nor did they continue the sub- 
ject further. 


^^The Baby” 


199 


There was plenty of work before them, now 
that Uncle Ben had brought from Southport 
the needed materials, and the three set about 
it with a will during a full hour, when it 
seemed much as if they had lost interest, for 
then Uncle Ben came down to the shore lead- 
ing Joey by the hand, and straightway each 
of the laborers appeared to believe he was 
called upon to entertain the new member of 
the family. 

Uncle Ben stretched himself lazily on the 
sand as if it pleased him wondrously well to 
watch the ^^baby,^' while Mr. Rowe intro- 
duced him to the Sally D.,’’ even carrying 
him on board upon his shoulders, and, see- 
ing Sam and Tommy wistfully watching the 
movements of the two, the old man said 
encouragingly : 

If you boys want to play with Joey, why 
donT you do it ? I reckon, now that Reuben 
has got these famous timbers of his in place, 
there ain't any good. reason why you shouldn't 
take things easy, an' the baby hasn't had any 
too comfortable a time in this world but that 
he'll take to a bit of sport with you." 

Mr. Rowe was clambering down over the 


200 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

bow of the schooner as Uncle Ben thus spoke, 
and one might almost have fancied that he 
was displeased with the proposition which 
would prevent him from sharing in the romp. 
He said quickly to the lad who was yet seated 
on his shoulder : 

'' How would it strike you if we went over 
to look at the lobster car? 

You can’t see anythin’ there, Joey,” 
Tommy cried enticingly. ‘‘ Come with Sam 
an’ me ; we’ll roll up our trousers an’ go in 
wadin’.” 

The little lad from the poorhouse scram- 
bled down from Mr. Rowe’s shoulder, eager 
to accept the invitation, and the former 
“ crew ” of the “ Sally D.” could do no less 
than seat himself by Uncle Ben’s side, saying 
in an apologetic tone as he did so : 

I s’pose, when you come right down to 
facts, that I’m a leetle too old to be playin’ 
with a lot of youngsters ; but it seems so 
mighty good to have a baby like him ca- 
vortin’ ’round, that I can’t help wantin’ to 
have a hand in the fun myself.” 

I don’t blame you, Reuben, I don’t blame 
you a little bit, for I’ve been feelin’ a good 






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I’M GLAD HE’S (;(:)IN’ TO LIVE HERE 










The Baby” 


201 


deal that way myself this mornin*. To have 
a little shaver like Joey tumblin^ ’round, 
makes it seem as if we’d really started a 
family, an’ if things go along as smooth as 
they oughter, what with the schooner, an’ all 
these ’ere youngsters, the rest of my days will 
be spent in havin’ a good time watchin’ the 
rest of you runnin’ the island. Look at that 
baby, will yer I Ain’t it doin’ him a world of 
good to be paddlin’ in the water? I’m al- 
lowin’ that when we got hold of him it was 
a good deal better trade than buyin’ the 
schooner.” 

As a matter of fact, Joey Sampson so occu- 
pied the attention of all the family ” that 
when the hour of noon came around, and no 
more than sixty minutes had been spent in 
work on the Sally,” Mr. Rowe said half to 
himself, but yet speaking so loud that Uncle 
Ben could hear the words : 

He’s a mighty smart baby, an’ I’m glad 
he’s goin’ to live here on the island ; but there’s 
got to be some rules an’ regerlations ’bout 
playin’ with him, or watchin’ others do it, else 
it’ll be winter before we’re ready to launch the 
schooner.” 


202 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

I reckon you’re right, Reuben,” Uncle 
Ben said with a long-drawn sigh, an’ I’m 
goin’ to draw a line on myself right away ; 
but at the same time I don’t know when I’ve 
enjoyed myself more’n I have this forenoon. 
As for the baby I Look at him rollin’ over in 
the sand ! At a moderate guess I’d say he’d 
fatted up a full half-pound since mornin’.” 

It was quite a long time, however, before 
Uncle Ben was able to “ draw a line ” upon 
himself to the extent of treating the baby ” 
like an ordinary member of the family. It 
was not until the old lobster catcher had taken 
him out in the dory that he might see the 
boys haul the traps, and that Mr. Rowe had 
given him an afternoon of pleasure on board 
the stranded schooner, and Sam and Tom had 
carried him to the grove in the centre of the 
island, that the regular routine of work was 
taken up once more. 

Then all hands labored with a will to make 
up for the time spent in amusement, although 
each night, for at least half an hour after sup- 
per, Uncle Ben insisted on holding the ** baby ” 
on his knee while Sam and Tom washed the 
dishes and set the house to rights generally. 


The Baby ” 


203 


And as to Joey ? Verily his lines had fallen 
in pleasant places. Never before had he re- 
ceived so much attention, and for the first time 
in his life did he understand what it meant to 
be loved and petted. It was the belief of all 
the members of the family that he was grow- 
ing fat very rapidly, and Uncle Ben daily gave 
words to his regret that he had not been suf- 
ficiently thoughtful to have weighed the little 
fellow before leaving Southport, so they might 
know to a certainty how much Apple Island 
agreed with him. 

It must not be supposed, however, that while 
the family ” was thus being amused by Joey 
as if he had been a veritable plaything, all the 
work was neglected. As Mr. Rowe said, 
they spent about half the time coddlin’ him, 
but managed to putter ’round the ^ Sally D.’ 
enough to show that they were really bent on 
launchin’ her.” 

Then came the time when it was agreed 
among all hands that the baby ” must take 
care of himself, to a certain extent, and the 
work of wrecking was pushed forward with a 
will, each member of the family doing his 
best to make up the lost time. 


204 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

The schooner’s hull had been caulked and 
painted while yet she lay half in the sand and 
half on the rude ways, and Mr. Rowe felt con- 
fident every leak was stopped. Sam and Tom 
had taken it upon themselves to clean and 
paint the interior of the cabin until it was as 
sweet as soap and water could make it, and 
thus every token of Captain Doak had been 
cleared away. 

Uncle Ben had made two trips to Southport, 
but Joey had refused each invitation to go with 
him, giving as his reason that Apple Island 
was far too pleasant a place to leave even for 
a single hour, and this refusal pleased the old 
man even more than to have had the lad all 
to himself during an entire day. 

Then, about five weeks from the day when 
Uncle Ben became the owner of the Sally 
D.,” everything was made ready for the launch- 
ing, and Mr. Rowe announced that at high 
tide on the following morning he would be 
able to prove to the family that his method of 
wrecking was without a flaw. 

We’ll make a reg’lar Fourth of July out 
of the day,” Uncle Ben declared, as he sat by 
the window with Joey on his knee, “ an’ 


“The Baby” 


205 


even if we did squander considerable time 
on the baby when he first came, I^m allowin’ 
that we’ve earned a little pleasurin’, so Sammy 
an’ Tommy shall get up the finest dinner they 
know how to cook, an’ we’ll eat it in the 
‘ Sally’s ’ cabin after she’s swingin’ to her 
anchor in the cove.” 

As a matter of course, this was welcome 
news to the cooks, and they at once set about 
deciding upon what particularly dainty dishes 
should be served, until Mr. Rowe said half to 
himself : 

“ When I think that in all this time Eliakim 
Doak hasn’t showed hisself, I can’t help fearin’ 
he has been hatchin’ some kind of mischief, 
for unless he’s left Southport, which don’t 
seem likely, it ain’t reasonable to think he’d 
be willin’ to let us go on so smooth.” 

“ Now, now, Reuben, don’t go to crossin’ 
bridges before you come to ’em,” Uncle Ben 
said placidly, as he stroked Joey’s hair affec- 
tionately. I’m allowin’ that Eliakim has 
come to see the evil of his ways, an’ hasn’t 
been givin’ a thought to work us harm. Be- 
side, what call has he to do anythin’ agin us? 
We paid cash for the schooner, an’ more than 


2o6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

anybody else would give, at a time when he 
wanted to sell her, so, as Tve figgered it, we did 
him a good turn.” 

There’s no goin’ back of that. Uncle Ben,” 
Mr. Rowe agreed, “ but doin’ Eliakim Doak a 
good turn is much the same as if you’d kicked 
another man black an’ blue. He ain’t built 
the right way to appreciate it. The only time 
he can be made to understand is when some- 
body stands ready to knock him down when- 
ever he goes wrong, an’ that’ll keep him where 
he belongs.” 

‘‘ Wa’al, Reuben, we won’t bother our heads 
’bout Eliakim jest now when the ^ Sally ’ is so 
near afloat. Let’s have our launchin’ in the 
mornin’ an’ celebrate it the best we know how, 
without thinkin’ of anythin’ that ain’t pleas- 
ant,” and once more Uncle Ben gave himself 
up to the enjoyment of treating Joey as a 
veritable baby. 

It is safe to say that at least once every flve 
minutes during the remaining time of day- 
light each member of the “ family ” looked out 
of the window at the “ Sally D.” as she stood 
on the ways, looking every inch fit for the 
launching, and more jaunty, so Uncle Ben de- 


dared, than on the first day she made the ac- 
quaintance of the water. 

There was no indication that the sun was 
near at hand when Mr. Rowe awakened the 
inmates of the shanty next morning, but he 
insisted they should be up and at work in order 
that, as he expressed it, “ they might have 
plenty of time to look at the ' Sally ' before 
she went slidin’ down the well-greased ways.’^ 

Therefore it was that the sun had not yet 
risen when the family ate breakfast, and Sam 
and Tom finished the morning^s work at least 
three hours before the tide would be at its 
height. They were intending to cook a reg- 
ular feast to be carried aboard the Sally 
after she was in the water, but it would not be 
time to set about that for a long while and the 
lads, having nothing else with which to oc- 
cupy themselves, strolled down to the beach 
when the shanty had been set to rights, where 
were Uncle Ben, Mr. Rowe and Joey Sampson 
gazing at the schooner as eagerly as if they 
had never seen her before. 

There's no use talkin', she'll make a snug 
little craft for this 'ere family," Mr. Rowe was 
saying as the lads joined the party, an' if she 


2o 8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

don^t bring in a good many more dollars than 
ever the lobster business did it^s ^cause IVe 
forgotten how to handle a line ! 

‘‘ I’m hopin’ she’ll pay well,” Uncle Ben 
replied thoughtfully, '' but it ain’t on account 
of my hankerin’ after the dollars for myself. 
I reckon there’s enough left in the bank to 
pay my funeral expenses, an’ I’m hopin’ the 
Lord won’t let me live after I can’t take care 
of myself; but it’s the family that’s makin’ 
me want to have more money cornin’ in. If 
I can see scraped together what’s needed to 
buy the island an’ have it fixed by the law- 
yers so’s it’ll always be a home for decent boys 
who are willin’ to help themselves if they’re 
given half a chance, then I’ll feel as if I’d done 
somethin’ in this ’ere world that’s worth 
countin’.” 

Mr. Rowe looked oddly out of the corner of 
his eye at the old lobster catcher for a moment, 
and then said, half to himself : 

“ ’Cordin’ to the way I look at things, what 
you’ve already done is well worth countin’. 
Uncle Ben, an’ if there are sich matters as 
harps in the next world, yours oughter be the 
biggest an’ have the most strings ! ” 


“The Baby” 


209 


“ If that old heathen ain’t cornin’ over here 
jest when we don’t want him, I’m a duffer ! ” 
Tom screamed at the full strength of his lungs 
as he pointed across the water in the direction 
of Southport, and, turning quickly to learn 
the cause of the alarm, the other members of 
the family saw two dories heading for the 
island, one leading the other by a considerable 
distance. 

In an instant Uncle Ben and Mr. Rowe were 
on their feet, the old lobster catcher showing 
by his face that he was seriously disturbed in 
mind, as he asked of Mr. Rowe in a gentle 
whisper : 

“ Do you allow, Reuben, that Eliakim can 
really be cornin’ here after havin’ stayed away 
so long?” 

I’m ready to allow that there’s nothin’ too 
mean for him to do, ’specially when he’s got 
one of his ugly spells. It strikes me that 
we’ve got to handle him my way, instead of 
yours, for you’re too soft to deal with the likes 
of Eliakim Doak.” 

We won’t have any trouble, Reuben, 
unless he tries to do mischief, an’ then I 
allow we’re warranted in protectin’ our 


210 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

own. Ain^t there two men in that first 
dory ? 

“ Yes, an’ most like he’s got some vagabond 
crony or another, with more trailin’ on be- 
hind, allowin’ that they’ll do jest about as they 
please. Now see here. Uncle Ben,” and Mr. 
Rowe spoke in an imploring tone. “You 
ain’t built the right way to tackle sich as 
them, so s’pose you toddle up to the shanty 
with Joey, an’ let the boys an’ me ’tend to 
this ’ere job? I’m willin’ to agree that soft 
words are all right as a general thing, but 
when it comes to throwin’ ’em away on the 
likes of Eliakim, it’s a waste of time an’ 
breath. This ’ere is the same as your own 
island, an’ if you’ll crawl off somewhere. I’ll 
see to it that Doak don’t do any funny 
business.” 


CHAPTER XVII 


THE LAUNCHING 

Uncle Ben lifted Joey in his arms, as if 
about to do exactly as Mr. Rowe desired, and 
then remembering, most likely, that Reuben's 
methods of dealing with men like Captain 
Doak were not such as he approved of, he 
stood irresolute, gazing anxiously at the ap- 
proaching boats as he said : 

“ It's too bad that our day of pleasurin' 
should be spoiled by Eliakim, when he hasn't 
got the least little reason for makin' a 
row." 

Do as Mr. Rowe wants you to. Uncle Ben, 
an' there won't be much of anythin' spoiled," 
Tommy said pleadingly, as he tried to drag 
the old man toward the shanty. “ The three 
of us can take care of the schooner without 
tryin' very hard." 

But I'm afraid there'll be a fight. Tommy, 
an' that's a poor way of celebratin' the 
211 


212 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

launchin’ of the ' Sally/ ’’ the old man said 
mournfully. 

Don’t you worry ’bout that, for we’ll 
knock his head off before he gets very far 
along in his funny business,” Tom cried con- 
fidently, and this assurance seemed to have 
the opposite effect from that intended. 

We won’t stir up more of a row than can 
be helped, an’ I’m certain you’d rather we 
showed a little fight than let him do harm to 
the schooner just when we’ve got her in sailin’ 
trim,” Sam pleaded, and Mr. Rowe added, 
speaking as if to a child : 

“ Now do look at it in the right light, 
Uncle Ben ! We’re bound to take care of the 
‘ Sally,’ else what’ll come of your plan for 
makin’ a home here for them what ain’t got 
any?” 

In no other way could Mr. Rowe have 
presented the case to more speedily insure 
Uncle Ben’s obedience. The possibility that 
Captain Doak might work such mischief as 
would prevent him from carrying out the 
scheme he had so long in mind, and which 
was so well begun, caused the old man to lose 
sight of everything else, and, as if escaping 


The Launching 213 

from some terrible and immediate danger, he 
ran swiftly toward the shanty with Joey in 
his arms. 

“ Now we^re got rid of Uncle Ben, I reckon 
it won^t take us long to settle that old heathen’s 
hash, no matter how many heelers he’s got 
with him,” Tommy said, in a tone of satis- 
faction, and looking very much as if the 
prospect of trouble with the former owner of 
the “ Sally D.” pleased him greatly. 

Mr. Rowe, however, was not inclined to 
look upon the situation as affording many 
possibilities for enjoyment. The fact that 
Captain Doak had such a large party with 
him seemed fairly good evidence that he had 
come to do something more than make threats, 
and, regardless of the fact that he had spoken 
so confidently of what he would be able to do in 
the way of protecting the “ family’s ” property, 
Reuben understood that he and the two lads 
could not successfully oppose any determined 
attack. 

Within five minutes after Uncle Ben and 
Joey had taken refuge in the shanty, it was 
possible to make out that the second dory had 
as crew three men, and these with the men in 


214 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the first boat would make up a force which 
would be able to carry out any plan agreed 
upon, however bravely the defenders of the 
island might battle for their rights. 

“ That’s Eliakim in the leadin’ dory,” Mr. 
Rowe said after a keen survey of the approach- 
ing craft, an’ unless I’m way out of my 
reckonin’, it’s Jim Coulson with him. 
’Cordin’ to my idee these two are about the 
most worthless couple that can be found in 
the Port. It stands to reason they’ve come 
to make trouble, an’ I’m beginnin’ to be afraid 
we’ll have our hands full.” 

“ They’ll have to work mighty lively if 
they get the best of us,” Tom said confidently 
as he searched about for something in the 
shape of a club that would serve his purpose, 
and Sam, who was seriously disturbed by the 
expression of anxiety on Mr. Rowe’s face, 
added doubtfully : 

We can’t hold out very long against five 
men, ’less Uncle Ben takes it inter his head 
to lend a hand, an’ I’m afraid he’d see ’em 
wreck the ‘ Sally ’ before thinkin’ he oughter 
make a reg’lar fight.” 

No, we can’t count on him,” and Mr. 


The Launching 215 

Rowe shook his head sorrowfully, but seem- 
ing to recover his courage an instant later, as 
he added : “ Howsomever, we’ll make it hot 

for a spell, no matter how many Eliakim has 
got with him, an’ then if we’re downed it 
won’t be our fault.” 

Tom had found such a weapon as would ap- 
parently serve his purpose, and set about pro- 
curing something of the same kind for Sam ; 
but Mr. Rowe made no preparations what- 
ever. He stood with his gaze fixed upon the 
leading boat, as if by such close scrutiny he 
could determine what the enemy’s first move 
would be, and then walked slowly up the 
beach on seeing that the dory would take the 
sand a short distance to the eastward of where 
the Sally ” rested on the ways as if impatient 
to be in the water once more. 

It was evident that Captain Doak had come 
for some other purpose than to indulge in 
empty threats, for he spoke not a word as the 
little craft drifted shoreward, and when she 
was within fifty feet of the beach Mr. Rowe 
cried warningly : 

Don’t make the mistake of landin’ on this 
island, Eliakim Doak, or there’ll be more 


2i 6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

trouble come of it than you’re lookin’ for ! 
YouVe been cautioned against trespassin’, an’ 
tellin’ you that Uncle Ben counts on doin’ jest 
as he threatened.” 

“ If I did my duty I’d have you in jail for 
mutiny ! ” Captain Doak cried threateningly. 

If you mix inter this matter, I’ll have a 
warrant out before you’re a day older, Reuben 
Rowe ! ” 

Why don’t you go ahead an’ get your 
warrants, instead of makin’ so much talk 
about it? ” the sailor cried angrily. I count 
on mixin’ in here long enough to give you the 
strongest dose you ever got, an’ don’t you for- 
get it I If you come ashore here I’ll see to it 
that you don’t go back in as good shape as you 
are now.” Then in a whisper to Tom, who 
stood close by his side, You two lads are to 
jump on Jim Coulson the minute he puts foot 
on the sand, without payin’ any heed to me. 
If I can’t take care of Eliakim Doak single 
handed, it’ll serve me right to be used up.” 

Tom, repeating Reuben’s words to Sam, ran 
forward to take his part in the coming battle 
just as Captain Doak leaped ashore, evidently 
bent on trying conclusions with Mr. Rowe at 


The Launching 217 

once, and just at this point, when it seemed 
as if there was no longer any possibility a fight 
could be averted, the second dory had come 
within hailing distance. 

Until this moment none of those of the 
island had given any particular heed to her, 
therefore, they were really startled by hearing 
a friendly voice cry : 

“ Look out, Reuben ! Don’t get inter a 
mix-up when there’s no real need of it I 
We’ve come over to see that you ain’t imposed 
on I ” 

It’s Uncle Ben’s friend, Billy Mansfield, 
an’ he must have had an inklin’ of what 
Eliakim was up to ! ” Mr. Rowe said to the 
lads in a tone of relief. I reckon there won’t 
be any great amount of mischief done this 
day!” 

What are you doin’ here? ” Captain Doak 
cried savagely, wheeling about to face the new- 
comers as if he was only at this moment 
aware of their neighborhood. “ I’ll have you 
understand that the man who comes agin me 
this day is like to get all that’s needed I ” 

Don’t make the mistake of threatenin’, 
Eliakim Doak I ” Mr. Mansfield cried warn- 


2i 8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

ingly. It may be that we’ve come over to 
have a share in the launchin’, seein’s how there 
ain’t much goin’ on in the Port to-day, an’ 
then ag’in perhaps we tailed on knowin’ you 
was bent on mischief, an’ countin’ to lend 
Uncle Ben a hand. Since you’ve begun to 
threaten, it may be well if I give you notice 
here an’ now, that you’re to keep away from 
this island. We at the Port have made up 
our minds that you’ve got to live somewhere 
near decent from this on, or leave our part of 
the country.” 

By this time Mr. Mansfield and his friends 
had stepped ashore from their dory and were 
standing between the former owner of the 

Sally D.” and the defenders of the island, 
showing by their attitude that they were 
ready to lend a hand against the two who 
were plotting mischief. 

“ I’ve come here for my schooner, an’ count 
on havin’ her,” Captain Doak cried in a voice 
hoarse with passion. “ You an’ half a dozen 
like you did what you could to cheat me out 
of the vessel, an’ it’ll be a sorry day when you 
go any further in sich fraud.” 

You know as well as I do, Eliakim, that 


219 


The Launching 

you were forced to sell the ‘ Sally ^ because 
you couldn^t raise money enough to float her,” 
and it was evident that Mr. Mansfleld was 
striving hard to speak in a calm tone. “ If 
any other than Uncle Ben had bought the 
craft you wouldn’t have dared to open your 
mouth about ownership ; but on account of his 
bein’ a peaceable man who’d stand a good 
deal before raisin’ a hand in his own defense, 
you think it will be possible to bully him out 
of a few more dollars. We at the Port heard 
last night of what you counted on doin’ to- 
day, an’ we three have come, representin’ the 
town, to give you flnal warnin’. Behave your- 
self so far as the schooner an’ this island are 
concerned, or we’ll send you out of the 
county on a rail I ” Then, turning to Mr. 
Rowe, as if believing there was no need of 
further conversation with Captain Doak, the 
visitor asked, Where is the old man ? ” 

“ Up in the shanty. We sent him there, 
thinkin’ we could handle Eliakim better with- 
out him.” 

** Well, seein’s Cap'’en Doak is sober enough 
to understand that he’d better not kick up any 
row while we’re here, s’posen you go ahead 


220 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

with your launchin’ ? WeVe come out to help 
celebrate, an’ don’t want any hitch in the 
business.” 

She shall come off the ways at high 
water,” Mr. Rowe replied in a tone of relief, 
and as Mr. Mansfield and his friends went to- 
ward the shanty he set about the final ar- 
rangements for sending the “ Sally ” into the 
water. 

Captain Doak and his friend stood irreso- 
lutely near their boat, as if trying to decide 
whether it would be safe for them to make 
any further attempt at bullying the inhabit- 
ants of the island, while Mr. Rowe and the 
lads went about their work as if the former 
owner of the “ Sally ” no longer had an exist- 
ence. 

There was really very little remaining to be 
done before the schooner was ready for the 
launching, but Mr. Rowe seemed eager to find 
something with which to occupy himself, and 
his companions did their best at seconding his 
efforts. 

During five minutes or more Captain Doak 
stood near by the dory conversing in whispers 
with his friend, and then the two went aboard. 


221 


The Launching 

Reuben calling after them as they slowly 
pulled away from the island : 

You've heard what Billy Mansfield said 
the folks at the Port would do if you tried to 
be funny with Uncle Ben, an' it won't be a 
bad idee if you bear in mind the fact that I'll 
be prepared for sich as you from this time 
out." 

'' You wouldn't be crowin' so loud if folks 
at the Port had minded their own business," 
Captain Doak growled. “ My time will come 
some day, an' when it does, you'll wish you'd 
never been born ! " 

Then the two men bent their backs to the 
oars, as if not eager for further conversation, 
and Mr. Rowe said in a confident tone to his 
companions : 

** You can set it down as a fact that Elia- 
kim won't dare to try any more funny busi- 
ness, seein's he's roused the folks at the Port. 
We've had a mighty lucky day of it, 'cordin' 
to my way of thinkin', for what he might do 
has bothered me not a little." 

An' do you believe he's done for now? " 
Tommy asked incredulously. 

** Ay, lad, you can set that down as a fact. 


222 


The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Eliakim is a good deal of a coward any time ; 
but now that Billy Mansfield has read the riot 
act to him, he'll give Apple Island a wide berth 
from this out. I reckon we may as well pass 
the word that them as wants to see the 
launchin' had best be gettin’ their seats, for 
the tide's as high as it's likely to be this day." 

It was as if the lads had, during the excite- 
ment of a possible battle with Captain Doak, 
forgotten that the moment was near at hand 
when it was to be shown whether the many 
days of labor would be rewarded by success, 
and now when Mr. Rowe made his announce- 
ment they were plunged into a state of mingled 
joy and doubt such as would be difficult to 
describe. 

Sam ran at full speed toward the shanty to 
summon those who had taken shelter there 
from the unpleasant scene which was presented 
by the arrival of the former owner of the 

Sally D.," and Tommy had no more than 
hoisted the flags on the schooner's spars than 
the visitors. Uncle Ben and Joey, came rapidly 
down to the beach. 

'' I'm allowin' that all of you will go on 
board the ' Sally,' " Reuben Rowe said, taking 


The Launching 223 

it upon himself to act as master of ceremonies, 
as was indeed his right after all he had done. 
“ The lads an’ I can start her, I reckon. 
You’ll find the anchor ready for lettin’ go, so 
stand by to bring her up with a sharp turn, 
for it’ll be quick work once she’s on the 
move.” 

Uncle Ben tossed Joey aboard over the bow, 
while the guests followed as best they might, 
and immediately the last one was on the deck 
Mr. Rowe gave the word to his assistants. 

Sam and Tom worked on one side of the 
hull, driving the starting wedge home, while 
Reuben attended to the work immediately op- 
posite them, and it is safe to say that every 
member of the launching party was astonished 
by the swiftness and ease with which this final 
portion of the task was performed. To the 
two lads who were just under the bow swing- 
ing the heavy sledges, it seemed as if no more 
than half a dozen blows had been struck be- 
fore the “ Sally ” began to slide down the ways 
much as though eager to be in the water, 
sending the spray high over her stern when 
the plunge was made. 

Then what a shout went up ! If Captain 


224 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Doak had not made good use of his time with 
the oars he must have heard the cries of re- 
joicing when the little schooner was afloat 
once more, tossing on the swell she herself had 
created and riding to her anchor much like a 
captive sea-gull. 

“ It’s a great job you’ve done, Reuben ! ” 
Uncle Ben cried in a tone of triumph when 
the cheering had subsided sufficiently to ad- 
mit of his making himself heard. From this 
out, so long as it pleases you to stay at Apple 
Island a member of the family, the ‘ Sally ’ 
shall be under your command ! ” 

All right. Uncle Ben,” Mr. Rowe replied, 
waving his arms as if it was absolutely impos- 
sible for him to remain motionless. “ I’ll 
take advantage of that promise by sayin’ that 
if the folks from the Port will stop over night 
here, so’s we can get the ballast in, we’ll carry 
’em home bright an’ early to-morrow mornin’ 
on board the ' Sally.’ ” 

^‘You’re right, Reuben, you’re right,” the 
old lobster catcher cried, gleefully as any 
child. I’ll see that they stay, an’ all hands 
of us will turn to for gettin’ the ballast in ! ” 


CHAPTER XVIII 


THE TKIAL TKIP 

Sam and Tommy could not afford to spend 
very many moments in rejoicing after the 

Sally was afloat, because the work of pre- 
paring a dinner which should really be a feast 
of thanksgiving had been intrusted to them, 
and time was precious if the task was to be 
performed according to their desires. 

It was impossible, however, for the two lads 
not to devote a few moments to admiring the 
jaunty little schooner as she rose and fell on 
the gentle swell, tugging at the anchor cable 
as if coaxing to be allowed to use her wings 
once more where the water was deep and the 
wind blew half a gale. 

It seems almost as if we had built the 
whole of her,’^ Sam said, half to himself, as he 
gazed with critical eye upon the charming 
marine picture before him. 

An^ I allow we can take more credit for 
her looks than belongs to the man who really 
225 


226 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

did put her together/^ Mr. Rowe added 
quickly. “ She was what you might call a 
wreck when Uncle Ben bought her, an’ now 
cast your eyes over the beauty ! I remember 
when she was first launched, an’ am free to 
say that she didn’t come anywhere near bein’ 
as handsome as at this minute, for her spars 
never did have rake enough, while the bow- 
sprit allers made her look snub-nosed. We’ve 
changed all that ; she’s as tight as a cup, an’ if 
she can’t outsail anythin’ on this ’ere coast 
I’ll eat my hat, instead of the dinner you lads 
are allowin’ to fix up this day.” 

An’ it’s time we got about the work, in- 
stead of standin’ here lookin’ at the dandy of 
all schooners that ever floated,” Tommy said 
with no slight show of nervousness. ‘‘ Here 
we’ve got to build a fire in the cabin, cook all 
the stuff that has been made ready, set the 
table, an’ do more work than the law allows ! 
Can’t you make Uncle Ben an’ his visitors 
come ashore, Mr. Rowe ? ” 

They can’t do it till I go after ’em in the 
dory, an’ that’s the fact,” Reuben replied 
laughingly. Do you know, I’d clean forgot 
everythin’ except the little beauty that we’ve 


227 


The Trial Trip 

worked over so long ! If Eliakim Doak could 
see her this minute, I’m reckonin’ he’d jest 
about go crazy ’cause she don’t belong to him 
any longer ! ” 

Don’t talk about that old heathen ! ” 
Tommy cried imploringly. It seems like it 
would bring us bad luck even to speak his 
name on the first day the ^ Sally ’ is in the 
water. Take hold with me, Sam, an’ we’ll 
shove off the dory, else Mr. Rowe’ll never get 
through lookin’ at the schooner I ” 

Reuben aroused himself, as it w^ere, and 
in another moment set about the work which 
was necessary before the first steps toward 
making ready the thanksgiving feast could be 
taken. 

It was agreed that Tom should go aboard 
and build a fire in the cook-stove, which had 
been made ready for use several days before 
the launching, while Sam began the task of 
bringing the eatables from the shanty to the 
shore, with the assistance of Reuben and little 
Joey, as soon as the guests had been brought 
ashore, for the baby of the family ” had in- 
sisted on being allowed to aid in the celebra- 
tion. 


228 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Although no one had anticipated the com- 
ing of guests, it had been agreed that Uncle 
Ben should not raise his hand in the way of 
work on this day, therefore, according to the 
program already made, he had nothing to do 
save act the part of host to Mr. Mansfield and 
his friends. 

How Sam and Tom worked when the food 
had been brought aboard the Sally ” and 
they, with Joey as assistant, were alone on the 
schooner ! Sam had already laid his plans as 
to what should be served for dinner, and such 
a quantity of food had been provided that 
even the addition of three to the list of feasters 
did not require additional preparation, save 
in the way of extra dishes and stools. 

Because of the visitors from Southport, Mr. 
Rowe suggested that a table be set up on deck, 
since the cabin was too small to accommodate 
so many, therefore, while the boys worked 
over the stove he and Joey put two boards, 
that were well scrubbed with soap and water, 
across from the top of the cabin to the star- 
board rail, and on these the feast was spread. 

The bill of fare was made up of fried lob- 
ster, broiled cunners, roasted clams, lobster 


229 


The Trial Trip 

chowder, stewed clams, potatoes and fresh 
bread in plenty, and coffee for all in brightly- 
scoured tin cups. 

Not until late in the afternoon was Sam 
willing to admit that he could do no more, 
and then Mr. Rowe brought Uncle Ben and 
the guests on board, after making the dory 
gay with a couple of old flags. 

If the boys had been hoping to be compli- 
mented for their skill as cooks they were not 
disappointed, for the gentlemen from South- 
port were loud and profuse in their praises as 
they seated themselves on either side the 
makeshift for a table, and Sam^s eyes glis- 
tened when Uncle Ben declared that the 
** family cook was the best coffee maker he 
had ever struck.’’ 

It can well be fancied how fervent was the 
blessing the old lobster catcher invoked, and 
a stranger might have thought that the 
schooner had been presented to him without 
money and without price, so humbly grateful 
was he to the good God for the gift of the little 
vessel. 

Sam and Tom insisted upon waiting upon 
those at table, and little Joey had been eager 


230 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

to assist them, but Uncle Ben declared that he 
wouldn’t be able to eat a mouthful unless the 
baby was by his side, therefore, the two boys 
had the pleasure of conducting the feast 
unaided. 

How the food disappeared after the feasters 
got well to work I If Sam’s skill as a cook 
had not already been spoken of he would have 
understood that it was fully appreciated before 
that dinner came to an end. Even though so 
much had been prepared, it was necessary to 
fry six more lobsters, else the two boys would 
have gone hungry, for nearly everything on 
the table was gone before the last man de- 
clared it was impossible for him to eat any 
more. 

It’s the best dinner I ever put into my 
mouth,” Mr. Mansfield said decidedly as he 
sipped the steaming coffee. I’ve heard it 
said Sammy Cushing could beat any cook that 
ever sailed out of the Port ; but I never put 
much faith in the talk till to-day. I allow 
you’re buildin’ up quite a family here. Uncle 
Ben ? ” 

“ That’s what I’m hopin’ to do, William,” 
the old lobster catcher replied modestly. 


231 


The Trial Trip 

Not havin^ child nor chick of my own, it 
seems as if I oughter do somethin^ in the way 
of lookin^ after youngsters what haven’t got 
any homes. Apple Island is big enough for 
a good many, an’ now that we’ve got this ’ere 
schooner to be used in fishin’, I’m allowin’ 
that we can provide for quite a number of lads 
who are willin’ to help themselves. Since 
Reuben Rowe wants to stay with us, an’ will 
run the * Sally,’ it stands to reason that with 
what the vessel brings in, added to the lob- 
sterin’, we’ll be able to do more than pay our 
way.” 

I’ve allers allowed that you was a good 
citizen. Uncle Ben,” Mr. Mansfield said as he 
rose to his feet, an’ we at the Port are proud 
of you, even though we haven’t said very 
much about it. When the selectmen got so 
snug that they couldn’t afford to keep Joey at 
the poor farm, an’ you gave him a home sich 
as any boy can be happy in, we had a better 
idee of what you was tryin’ to do than if you’d 
spent a week explainin’ it. The upshot of 
the whole matter is that we of the Port made 
up our minds to have a hand in the business, 
an’ without much tryin’ we’ve raised a hun- 


232 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

dred dollars cash, with the agreement to give 
more when it’s needed, so here’s the money.” 

Having said this, Mr. Mansfield laid before 
Uncle Ben a roll of bank-notes, and then sat 
down with the air of a man who is nearly on 
the verge of exhaustion from much speaking. 

Uncle Ben was so surprised that during 
several moments it seemed impossible for him 
to say#a word ; he swallowed something which 
seemed to have come up in his throat sud- 
denly, brushed his eyes as if they were full of 
dust, started up to leave the table, and then 
sank back again as if unable to do other than 
keep down the lump in his throat. 

It was Mr. Rowe who put an end to what 
was becoming really unpleasant by crying out 
loudly : 

Three cheers for Uncle Ben an’ the people 
of the Port who’ve found out what kind of a 
man he is ! ” 

Then all hands, except the old man himself, 
cheered wildly, and in the confusion caused 
by this outburst Mr. Mansfield proposed that 
the guests go ashore in order that the boys 
might have a chance to set the deck of the 
schooner to rights after the thanksgiving feast. 


233 


The Trial Trip 

It begins to look as if this 'ere family was 
cornin' out right strong, if the folks at the 
Port are lookin' after it," Tom said, in a tone 
of triumph, and Sam replied sharply : 

‘‘ Put all the people at the Port together, 
an' they wouldn't make up one of Uncle Ben's 
fingers ! It would have been a long day 
before they thought of startin' a family, an' it 
wasn't until Uncle Ben had spent about all 
the money he had in the bank that they woke 
up to the idee he was doin' somethin' big in 
helpin' sich fellers as you an' me." 

Don't you count one hundred dollars 
anythin' ? " Tom asked in surprise. 

Of course I do ; but what is it for all of 
them to raise, when Uncle Ben has put out 
more'n five times as much without winkin' ? " 

Then Sam, as if he had settled the matter 
finally, went about his work, and the sun was 
not yet ready to drop out of sight behind the 
hills when the deck and cabin of the Sally 
D." were as cleanly and orderly as before the 
feast was made ready. 

Mr. Mansfield and his friends were not in- 
clined to eat the “ bread of idleness," as was 
shown very shortly after they went on shore ; 


234 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

for then they set about bringing out ballast in 
the dories, under the direction of Mr. Rowe, 
until a full half hour before night had shut 
in, the Sally D.” was in good trim for the 
trial trip on the following morning. 

As had been arranged, the regular crew of 
the “ Sally slept on board that night in the 
newly-painted bunks. Reuben claimed the 
right as captain to the aftermost one on the 
starboard side, while Sam and Tom occupied 
the two forward berths opposite, and very 
snug and beautiful was the cabin when the 
small swinging lamp had been lighted. 

It won’t be anythin’ more’n fun to go out 
fishin’ in a craft like this,” Tom said sleepily, 
as he took one last look around before Mr. 
Rowe extinguished the light for the night, 
and the captain ” replied with no little of 
sharpness in his tones : 

'' It’s dollars, not fun, that we’ll be after, 
lad, when once the work is begun. This ’ere 
schooner has cost a heap of money, even 
though Uncle Ben did get her at a bargain, 
an’ if she don’t bring in the whole expense of 
the family, with a little left over for them as 
may come later. I’ll say we’ve made a bloomin’ 


235 


The Trial Trip 

failure of our job. Why, I’ve known a craft 
like this to pay for herself twice over in one 
season, an’ while we can’t count on any sich 
luck as that, seein’ our crew will be small, we 
oughter make enough to keep Uncle Ben’s 
mind easy ’bout money matters. Now you 
lads are to shut your eyes, ’cause it’ll be a 
mighty early call in the mornin’.” 

As to this last Mr. Rowe kept his word 
faithfully, for it seemed to the boys as if they 
had no more than fallen asleep before he 
aroused them with the word that they would 

need to jump right lively in order to make 
breakfast ready before the schooner was under 
way.” 

The sun had not yet risen when Uncle Ben, 
little Joey and the guests came on board ; but 
even then Sam and Tom had a hearty meal 
prepared ; and when, with every flag flying 
and the wind cresting the waves with foam, 
the “ Sally D.” glided out of the cove under 
full sail, the day was no more than well 
begun. 

If only it were possible to describe the joy of 
the ‘‘ family ” on this first trip of the schooner 
they had rescued from the sands I Every 


236 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

inch of canvas was spread to the fresh breeze, 
the little craft heeling over to it until to Joey 
it seemed as if she was in danger of capsizing, 
and with the water spouting up from her 
bow into spray, she gave good proof that 
Reuben had told only the truth when he said 
she could show her heels to anything of her 
size that ever sailed out of Southport. 

Mr. Rowe stood at the helm ; Sam and Tom 
stationed themselves in the bow as lookouts, 
although there was no need of any such pre- 
caution ; Joey ran to and fro screaming with 
delight, while Uncle Ben and his guests re- 
mained well aft where they could watch with 
sailorly eyes the movements of the jaunty 
little schooner. 

The lads in the bow, who behaved very 
much as if believing the cruise could not be 
made if they failed of keeping their eyes fixed 
upon the waters ahead, would have been well 
content to spend the entire day, and then a 
dozen more, cruising idly about, and it was 
really with a sense of disappointment that 
they saw the entrance to the harbor of South- 
port close under the bow. 

I reckon we've been cornin' some, to get 


here as soon as this/^ Tom said in a tone of 
admiration, and Sam added contentedly : 

This is the craft that can fly when she^s 
in shape, with somebody at the helm who 
knows what he’s about.” 

It was as if the people at the Port had re- 
ceived early notice of the exact time when 
the Sally ” was to arrive, for as she entered 
the harbor flags were flying on every vessel 
in port, the church bells were ringing out a 
noisy welcome, and the one pier was literally 
black with people who had assembled to wel- 
come the ** family ” and their schooner. 

It looks as if they counted on makin’ a 
reg’lar celebration out of it,” Sam said in de- 
light, and then a cloud came over his face as 
he added in a whisper : S’pose Cap’en Doak 
should be here, an’ it stands to reason he is, 
we’re bound to have trouble, ’cause he’ll never 
get over sayin’ that he owns some part of the 
^ Sally ’ ! ” 

Well, let him say it,” Tom replied care- 
lessly. He can talk himself black in the 
face without changin’ anythin’, an’ by this 
time the folks here know what kind of a 
pirate he is.” 


238 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

“ But we can’t afford to have a row the 
very first day the ‘ Sally ’ is under sail, ’cause 
it’ll be bad luck ! ” Sam wailed. 

The luck will be whatever we’re a mind 
to make it, an’ as for that old heathen, he 
won’t dare to open his mouth while all these 
people are around.” 

Reuben Rowe interrupted the conversation 
by giving the word to let go the jib halyards, 
and by the time the Sally ” was stripped of 
her canvas Uncle Ben had thrown a hawser 
ashore to be caught and made fast by the 
many hands that were outstretched to have a 
part in this first landing. 

The little schooner was not moored when 
the church bells rang out a yet louder wel- 
come, and Uncle Ben’s weather-bronzed cheeks 
were actually red as the citizens of the Port 
shouted themselves hoarse in his honor. 

It’s a big day ! ” Sam whispered to Tom, 
“ an’ if only Cap’en Doak ain’t here we’ll 
have the time of our lives ! ” 


CHAPTER XIX 


THE FIRST CRUISE 

When Joey Sampson was an inmate of the 
poorhouse, the people of Southport gave little 
heed to him as, bent on some errand, he 
entered the village ; but on this day it seemed 
as if every man, woman and child was eager 
to speak a kindly word. The tiny fellow was 
lifted over the rail by some of the more offi- 
cious even before the Sally had really 
come to a full stop, while those whom he had 
never seen before greeted him as a friend until 
he was absolutely dazed by receiving so much 
attention. 

Uncle Ben also found that he had suddenly 
grown popular, for the people crowded around 
when he came over the side of the schooner, 
shaking his hand so often and vigorously that 
the old man was really bewildered, and whis- 
pered to Sam at the first opportunity : 

** I declare, Sammy, I canT make out what 
has come over the folks here ! A body would 
239 


240 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

think I was the best friend they ever had ; it 
wasn’t this way when I put in here last.” 

“ They’re beginnin’ to find you out, Uncle 
Ben, that’s what’s the matter,” Sam replied 
with a laugh, and Reuben Rowe, who had 
come up in time to overhear the conversation, 
added : 

“ I’m allowin’ that you can lay a good deal 
of this ’ere reception to Eliakim Doak. He’s 
been makin’ so much talk, an’ threatenin’ to 
raise sich a pile of mischief, that the folks 
began to think ’bout what you’re doin’ in the 
way of raisin’ a family, till all of a sudden 
they’ve found out that you’re the salt of the 
earth.” 

Then the conversation ceased because of the 
many people who had been pushing their way 
through the throng to speak with the old lob- 
ster catcher, and who insisted on claiming 
his attention ; therefore Sam modestly allowed 
himself to be shoved back against the rail of 
the ‘‘Sally,” where he was standing when 
Tom, who had been to the head of the pier, 
came up literally breathless with excitement. 

“ Your old pirate is over there by the store- 
house sure enough ; but while so many people 


The First Cruise 


241 


are around I reckon he won’t dare to show 
himself very big. I’ve got it in my head, 
though, that he’ll raise a row if it looks as 
if he could without gettin’ inter too much 
trouble.” 

Sam was no longer afraid of what Captain 
Doak might do. The citizens of Southport 
had been so cordial in their welcome that the 
lad knew full well the former owner of the 
“ Sally D.” would not dare to say or do any- 
thing disagreeable, and he replied with a 
show of carelessness : 

“ We needn’t bother our heads ’bout him 
to-day, for he’s got sense enough to keep 
quiet ; but when we’re back on the island, 
an’ the ‘ Sally ’ is layin’ at anchor with no- 
body aboard, he’ll be brave as a lion, ’cause 
he knows Uncle Ben wouldn’t hurt a fly no 
matter how many times he’d been bitten.” 

Having thus dismissed Captain Doak from 
their minds, the boys gave themselves wholly 
up to the pleasures provided for them by the 
citizens of the Port, and from that time until 
late in the afternoon they enjoyed every mo- 
ment of the time. Then Mr. Rowe, who had 
come in search of them and found both feast- 


242 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

ing on figs in Mr. Mansfield's store, an- 
nounced : 

“ Uncle Ben says it’s time we was makin’ a 
break for home, an’ I allow he’s right, seein’s 
how we need to get an early start to-morrow, 
for there’s considerable work to be done after 
we get home.” 

Where are you countin’ on goin’ to-mor- 
row ? ” Sam asked as he followed the captain 
of the schooner. 

Deep-sea fishin’. Uncle Ben has bought 
a barrel of bait, an’ we’re goin’ to see what 
can be done with it.” 

“ Is it to be the first real cruise ? How long 
are we to be gone ? ” Tom asked excitedly. 

It’ll be a real cruise all right, an’ I’m 
allowin’ we’ll stay till we get fish enough 
aboard to make it pay,” and Mr. Rowe led the 
way to the pier at a rapid pace. You see 
Uncle Ben found a chance to buy some bait 
cheap, an’ since he an’ Joey can look after the 
lobsterin’ without strainin’ themselves very 
hard, it stands us in hand to make the ^ Sally ’ 
earn some little part of what’s been put out 
on her.” 

But we’ll have to take a lot of food with 


The First Cruise 


243 


us/’ and Tom looked anxious, as if fearing 
the start could not be made as soon as Reuben 
had proposed. 

I reckon it won’t take you two lads long 
to put aboard what we’ll need in the way of 
pork, flour an’ potatoes. It’ll be a case of 
livin’ mostly on what we catch, or goin’ 
hungry.” 

Now the boys were as eager to leave the 
town as they had been to visit it, and on arriv- 
ing at the schooner were well pleased at flnd- 
ing Uncle Ben and Joey aboard awaiting 
them. 

If the citizens of the Port could have had 
their way the little vessel and her crew would 
have remained in harbor many days, but, rec- 
ognizing the fact that the old lobster catcher 
would be eager to make the first experiment 
at deep-sea Ashing, after having spent so many 
dollars on the ‘‘ Sally,” they did what little 
they might toward hastening the departure. 

When the hawsers had been cast off and the 
sails hoisted, the people cheered Uncle Ben and 
his “ family ” until they were well out of the 
harbor, and not until then did the boys think 
it possible to attend to their duties, which 


244 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

were to cook supper and make preparations 
for the night, Mr. Rowe having announced 
with an air of authority that the crew 
would be forced to sleep on board in order to 
be ready for an early start. 

We’re goin’ out for fish,” he said, as if ex- 
pecting some one would dispute the state- 
ment, an’ what’s more, we’re bound to get 
’em. The first cruise must be made to pay, 
else we’re like to have bad luck.” 

“ I kinder had it in mind, Reuben, that the 
whole family oughter have a hand in the first 
fishin’ ; but since we’ve got the bait, I reckon 
you an’ the boys will have to go out alone,” 
Uncle Ben said with such a mournful ring in 
the words that all hands understood he was 
disappointed in not being able to take part in 
the opening venture, and Sam replied quickly, 
stifling his own desires : 

“ You shall go. Uncle Ben, an’ I’ll ’tend to 
the pots alone. It won’t be very much of a 
job.” 

No, no, Sammy, I shan’t agree to anythin’ 
like that, for I knowhow keen you an’ Tommy 
are to try out the ‘ Sally.’ It’s foolish in an 
old man like me to hanker after what oughter 


The First Cruise 245 

be an old story at my time of life. The baby 
an' I'll stay at home where we belong, an' look 
after the island to see that it don't run away." 

“ I can't see anythin' foolish in your wantin' 
to go, 'specially since you've come pretty nigh 
sinkin' your last dollar in this 'ere schooner," 
and Mr. Rowe spoke in a thoughtful tone, as 
if he was turning some plan over in his mind. 
‘‘ Say, what's to hinder your goin', anyway ? " 
We can't use the ^ Sally ' as a plaything, 
Reuben. Lobsterin' is what we're dependin' 
on for a livin', and it mustn't be neglected." 

** Who's talkin' 'bout neglectin' it ? " and the 
captain of the “ Sally " appeared aggrieved 
because such a suggestion had been made. 

I'm keepin' it in mind that lobsterin' is the 
mainstay of this 'ere family, while fishin' is 
what might be called a side issue till it's been 
tried out good an' hard. What's to hinder 
our lookin' after the traps to-night? We've 
only got one barrel of bait, an' it don't stand 
to reason that the first cruise can be a very 
long one. Now it won't do any harm if the 
pots ain't hauled for eight an' forty hours, an' 
we're sure to be back before that time has 
gone by." 


246 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Uncle Ben’s face brightened, while little 
Joey clapped his hands in glee at the possi- 
bility of making the first cruise in the schooner 
on which all hands had labored so long and 
earnestly, and Sam, now quite as eager as 
either of the two, cried pleadingly : 

“ Take up with Mr. Rowe’s offer. Uncle Ben, 
take it up ! Tom an’ I’ll pull the traps as 
soon as ever we get back, an’ you won’t be the 
poorer by a single lobster, ’cause we’ll put in 
plenty of bait so’s them as get inter the traps 
won’t go to eatin’ each other.” 

Then Tommy added his entreaties, while 
Mr. Rowe continued to “ figger out ” how and 
why Uncle Ben could safely leave the island 
during two days, with the result that the old 
man, after questioning the boys as to whether 
they had cunners enough on hand to bait all 
the traps, said slowly, much as if he was 
weakly yielding to temptation : 

I’m free to confess that I’m jest the same 
as achin’ to have a hand in the first take of 
fish that comes aboard the ‘ Sally ’ after she’s 
the same as been dug outer the sand, an’ while 
I know it’s childish to set my heart on sich 
things, the baby an’ I’ll go. We’ll not be 


The First Cruise 


247 


very much worse off for mixiii' in a little play 
with our work, even if we have the same as 
wasted this whole day.’^ 

“ I don^t call it a waste of time when you 
try out a schooner after launchin^ her,” Mr. 
Rowe grumbled, “ an' seein's how the folks at 
the Port sent you a clean hundred dollars, it 
strikes me you was in duty bound to carry 
back them as brought it.” 

Yes, yes, Reuben, Pm allowin' you're 
right, an' we'll all hands go on the first 
cruise. Look after your helm, for if the lads 
are to haul the pots to-night, we need to make 
Apple Island as soon as may be.” 

It was needless to caution Mr. Rowe as to 
his steering, for he was doing his best to leave 
the straightest of straight wakes behind him, 
and from the time of leaving Southport had 
never once taken his eyes from the course. 
However, the sheets were flattened a bit to get 
all the advantage which might be had from 
the breeze, and Uncle Ben and little Joey 
swayed down on the jib halyards to take out 
an imaginary wrinkle from the canvas. 

It seemed as if even the wind was favorably 
disposed toward Uncle Ben's desires, for it 


248 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

freshened very decidedly within ten minutes 
after the question had been settled, and the 
“ Sally D/' sped toward Apple Island with a 
big bone in her teeth, heeling over until little 
Joey began to fear she would capsize. 

The sun was considerably more than an 
hour high when the family arrived at the 
cove, and immediately the anchor had been 
let go Mr. Rowe said sharply, as he began to 
snug down the canvas : 

You lads donT want to waste any time 
now, else it’ll be too dark to see the buoys be- 
fore you have pulled all the pots. Get away 
smartly ; Uncle Ben an’ I’ll ’tend to matters 
here.” 

The lads were over the rail in a twinkling, 
only waiting to tow the old dory alongside the 
“ Sally ” before setting off with the idea of 
doing half a day’s work in two hours, and 
Uncle Ben called after them as they left the 
cove : 

“ Don’t stay out after dark, lads, ’cause it 
ain’t safe to pull pots when, if one of you went 
overboard, the other couldn’t see him. I’m 
allowin’ it won’t be any great harm if we 
don’t look after ’em all to-night ; we’ll make 


The First Cruise 


249 

up on fish what we may lose in the way of 
lobsters/^ 

To this the lads made no reply ; but when 
they returned to the cove, a full three hours 
after setting out, it was with the report that 
every trap had been visited. 

The catch was so big that it didnT seem 
right to skip any,” Sam said by way of ex- 
planation. “ We took mighty good care not 
to make a slip while haulin’ in, an’ brought 
back forty-one full-sized lobsters, which I allow 
is the biggest haul that’s been made this season.” 

“ Indeed it is, lad,” Uncle Ben cried excit- 
edly. “ I declare for it, we oughter stay home 
if lobsters are movin’ at that rate ! ” 

“ Now, now. Uncle Ben, you can’t go back 
on your word,” Mr. Rowe cried as if in alarm. 

You’ve allowed to go with us in the mornin’, 
an’ here are these boys wet an’ hungry with 
tryin’ to fix things so’s nothin’ would prevent 
you takin’ part in the first cruise. Supper is 
all ready for you, lads, an’ the sooner you fill 
up your stomachs the quicker you’ll be able 
to turn in, for a full night’s rest is what all 
hands will be needin’ before another day’s 
work has been done.” 


250 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Then Mr. Rowe served up the remains of the 
breakfast, which he had heated for the occa- 
sion, and without stopping to argue with Uncle 
Ben as to the question raised by him, Sam and 
Tom set about eating as if they and food had 
been strangers for many a long day. 

Half an hour later every bunk in the 
“ Sally’s ” cabin had an occupant, and, save 
for the loud breathing, there were no signs of 
life apparent until Mr. Rowe came out all 
standing ” at least an hour before daybreak. 

“ All hands on deck ! ” he shouted, after 
looking out of the cuddy-hatch. We’re goin’ 
to have as much wind as will be needed, an’ 
can’t afford to be loafin’ ’round here while 
there’s many a school of fat mackerel outside 
cry in’ for us to come an’ catch ’em.” 

There was little need to urge Uncle Ben’s 
family on this morning, once their eyes were 
open, for the idea of making a try at taking 
fish was so exciting that it only needed they 
should be aroused to consciousness before all 
hands were, as Tom said, skippin’ ’round 
right lively.” 

It was hardly more than daybreak when 
the “ Sally ” sailed out of the cove with every 













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The First Cruise 


251 


flag flying, Uncle Ben at the helm, the two 
boys cooking breakfast in the cabin, and little 
Joey and Mr. Rowe forward on the lookout 
for mackerel. 

It was well for the ** family that the cooks 
did not loiter over their portion of the work, 
for in less than ten minutes after the last one 
had eaten breakfast Mr. Rowe gave the wel- 
come word that there was a big school of fish 
in the path of gold cast by the rising sun, and 
when Tom came on deck he could see what 
appeared to be a shadow, even amid the rays 
of light. 

Yes, them’s mackerel, all right ! ” Uncle 
Ben said joyously in answer to Tom’s ques- 
tion. ^^They swim so near the surface that 
their fins are almost out of water. A big 
school it is, for a fact, an’ if we get our fair 
share out of it I’m allowin’ we shan’t be away 
from the island many hours, for at this season 
of the year fresh mackerel are worth a good 
bit of money. We’ll be in a hurry to get 
’em to market.” 

Ten minutes later Mr. Rowe was throwing 
bait industriously as the “ Sally ” came 
up into the wind, and the old lobster 


252 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

catcher cried excitedly as he made ready his 
lines : 

Get your gigs out, lads, for this ^ere is a 
hungry school. Let the hooks jest touch the 
water, an^ when you bring one in over the 
rail, snap him off anywhere on deck, for this 
kind of fishin* is what you might call lively 
work, with no time for finnicky business.^' 
Even as he spoke Uncle Ben drew in a fish, 
and in a twinkling all hands were pulling the 
fiapping beauties over the rail at a rate that 
promised the richest kind of a fare in a very 
short time. 


CHAPTER XX 


GETTING EVEN 

To Tom and little Joey mackerel catching 
was a novelty, and neither was able to aid 
very much in the work until after having 
satisfied his curiosity regarding this odd 
method of fishing. 

Tom was lost in wonder because the hungry 
fish snapped at the bit of white cloth, or even 
the bare hook, before it was well down to the 
surface of the water, and not the least of his 
surprise was regarding the ease with which 
the mackerel could be shaken off after having 
been brought inboard. 

IPs the greatest fishin' I ever heard tell 
ofl^^he exclaimed in delight as Uncle Ben 
detached a rainbow-colored fish from the hook 
by a sharp jerk on the line. “ My, my, but 
don't they take hold lively ! " 

That's more'n can be said for you," the 
old lobster catcher replied with a laugh as he 
253 


254 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

pulled in another fish. When you strike a 
school of mackerel it don’t pay to spend much 
time with your mouth open, for they’re odd 
creeters, an’ jest as apt to knock off bitin’ in 
another minute as they are to keep on for the 
next hour. Fishermen have to get ’em when 
they’re in the humor, an’ it’s a case of jumpin’ 
to it the best you know how. Why don’t you 
swing your line over ? ” 

I declare for it I’d forgotten all about 
doin’ my share,” Tom said, in what was much 
like a tone of apology as he acted upon the 
old man’s suggestion. It’s so funny that I 
couldn’t do anythin’ but watch.” 

Even while speaking he swung a fat fish 
over the rail, and from that moment the 
most enthusiastic fisherman aboard was Tom 
Falonna. 

The eager fish even allowed themselves to 
be caught by the '' baby,” and little Joey 
screamed with delight as he brought over the 
rail a tiny “ tinker ” gorgeous in hues of blue, 
green, pink and white. 

Talk about luck on the first cruise ! ” Mr. 
Rowe cried when it seemed as if the “Sally’s ” 
deck was completely covered with the beauti- 


Getting Even 255 

ful fish. To strike a school so near inshore 
at this time of year is enough to make a man 
sit up an' look at himself ; but to have 'em 
keep up the fun so long is somethin' I never 
run across ! What about losin' a few lobsters 
for the sake of gatherin' in sich a fare as this ? 
I'm tellin' you, Uncle Ben, if we could get 
this lot inter Boston fresh, the ^ Sally' would 
come somewhere near payin' half her cost. 
If we only had a lot of ice aboard I " 

I'm allowin' Portland would be as good a 
market as Boston, an’ if this wind holds we 
could run in there with the mackerel sweet 
an’ fresh, even though we didn't have any 
ice," Uncle Ben replied thoughtfully, but 
without ceasing his work for a single instant. 

“ I believe it would pay, even though we 
didn't get back to the island for a week, for 
there's a good bit of money in this fare," 
Reuben said in a tone of satisfaction ; but his 
face clouded when the old man added de- 
cidedly : 

We can't afford to take the chances of 
havin' things go wrong at home, an' that's the 
fact." 

S'pose you can't get 'em in port fresh. 


256 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

what is to be done with such a slat? ” Tom 
asked, and Mr. Rowe replied mournfully : 

We’ll have to salt ’em down, which not 
only means a big lot of work, but cuts down 
the price a lot. It’s a pity we hadn’t left you 
lads ashore, an’ then it would be a case of our 
gettin’ inter market with what would fetch a 
couple of hundred dollars.” 

How far do you allow we are from Apple 
Island now ? ” Sam asked suddenly, as if a 
happy thought had come to him. 

Somewhere ’bout five miles, I reckon. 
What do you say. Uncle Ben?” 

“ We can’t be much further off than that ; 
but if we was countin’ on makin’ Portland, it 
would add ten miles to the run if we put in 
home, an’ that’s far enough to cut short our 
chances of gettin’ the fish on the market 
while the weather is so warm.” 

What’s to hinder Tom an’ me from pullin’ 
over home when this school gets through 
bitin’ ? ” Sam asked. You could get under 
way in a jiffy, an’ have no need to worry 
’bout things on the island. The only trouble 
would be that you’d have to go without a 
small boat.” 


Getting Even 257 

“ You’ve hit the nail square on the head, 
lad ! Mr. Rowe cried excitedly. It’s the 
very thing to be done ! I allow we can get 
along without the dory when it’s a case of 
scoopin’ in two hundred dollars or more ! ” 
What about it, Uncle Ben?” Sam asked 
anxiously, and the old man replied, speaking 
slowly and thoughtfully : 

It’ll be a long pull for you, Sammy ; but 
if it wasn’t for that I’d say Reuben had the 
right idee. We’ve got a lot of fish here, an’ 
they’re worth seven or eight cents apiece as 
they run, for fresh mackerel at this time of 
the year are somethin’ of a rarity, an’ there 
are rich folks enough in this world to pay 
extra money for the sake of havin’ things out 
of season.” 

“ Then the whole business is settled,” Tom 
cried, still continuing his work of adding to 
the cargo. It wouldn’t make any difference 
if we were ten miles from home, ’cause we’d 
be bound to pull back for the sake of helpin’ 
bring in two hundred dollars to the family. 
How is that for two or three hours’ fishin’ ? ” 

To this outburst Uncle Ben made no reply 
and his crew took it for granted that the 


258 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

matter was settled without need of further 
discussion. Mr. Rowe suggested that the 
baby/^ who was not making any great head- 
way at taking fish, set about gathering up the 
catch into baskets that it might be sent into 
the hold where the sun could not shine upon 
it and the remainder of the family worked 
even more rapidly than before, if indeed that 
could be possible, in order to add to the take 
before the mackerel were done biting. 

It seemed to the eager fishermen as if a full 
hour had been spent at the work before the 
fish, with no apparent reason, suddenly sank 
out of sight, and Uncle Ben announced as he 
swung his lines inboard : 

“ That finishes this job, an’ if you’re countin’ 
on makin’ Portland while the fare is sweet an’ 
fresh, Reuben, I’m allowin’ we’d better get 
the ‘ Sally ’ on her course. It’s been a rare 
piece of good fortune for the first cruise,” 
Uncle Ben said placidly, and Mr. Rowe 
shouted in a tone of command : 

Now, then, if you boys are reckonin’ on 
pullin’ back home, it’s time you got over the 
rail, for we can’t waste a minute jest now I ” 
Shan’t we hold on a bit to help put the 


Getting Even 259 

fish in the hold? ” Sam asked. “ It^s so early 
in the day that no great harm will be done if 
we make the trip three or four miles longer.^^ 

We can do that work after we’re on our 
course, an’ I’m not allowin’ you shall go any 
further from home,” Uncle Ben said decidedly. 
‘‘ If you’re willin’ to go back, get about the 
job before the ‘ Sally ’ is under way.” 

^‘Willin’? Of course we are!” Tom cried 
as he hauled the dory alongside. It would 
be funny if we wasn’t, with so much money 
to be made. I’d go back alone rather than 
lose the chance to make a pile on the first 
cruise.” 

“ Then over the rail with you, an’ be 
lively I ” Mr. Rowe cried. 

In a twinkling the two boys were in the 
dory, the painter was cast off, and little Joey 
was dancing excitedly about the deck as he 
screamed shrilly : 

Good-bye, Sam I Good-bye, Tom I I’m 
sorry you won’t have a chance to see the city, 
but I’ll tell you all about it when we get 
back I ” 

We don’t want to see any city, when 
there’s lots of lobsters in the pots 1 ” Sam 


26 o The Cruise of the Sally D. 

cried cheerily, “ Say, Uncle Ben, the car 
was mighty nigh full when we dumped the 
catch in last night ; what^s to be done if we 
have good luck to-day ? 

Better freight a load over to the Port, 
Sammy, if you feel able to pull that far. Mr. 
Mansfield will take all you carry ; but in case 
you’re too tired, we’ll run the chances of losin’ 
some of ’em, seein’s how this ’ere lot of mack- 
erel more’n makes up for them as may eat 
each other.” 

“Jest hold your hand on the top of your 
head till we get tired when there are big dol- 
lars to be made, an’ see how long you’ll keep 
it there ! ” Tom cried as the “ Sally ” came 
around on her heel, every inch of canvas 
catching the fresh breeze and forcing the little 
schooner on her way to Portland, as if under- 
standing how necessary it was the fish be de- 
livered to the purchasers by daybreak next 
morning. 

“ I thought I’d seen quick work before, but 
I never struck anythin’ so sudden as mackerel 
fishin’,” Tom said when the dory, with the 
boys each pulling a pair of oars, was headed 
for Apple Island, There must be big money 


26 i 


Getting Even 

in sich business, an^ I wonder Uncle Ben don^t 
knock off lobsterin’ to ’tend to it.” 

We might come out fifty times, an’ not 
strike luck the same as we had it this 
mornin’,” Sam replied with a happy laugh. 
“ It’s great for the first cruise, an’ now if we 
can take as many lobsters as we did last night, 
it’ll seem as if this family had started in all 
right.” 

So elated were the lads by the success of the 
morning that the five-mile pull was hardly 
more than sport, and so busy were they 
speculating as to how much money the mack- 
erel would bring in that it seemed as if they 
were hardly more than cast off from the Sally 
D.” before Apple Island was close under the 
dory’s bow. 

I reckon Mr. Rowe was way out of his 
reckonin’ when he said we were so faraway,” 
Tom cried in astonishment, when Sam called 
his attention to the fact that they were almost 

home. It can’t have been more’n 

Hello ! Ain’t that your old heathen jest 
pullin’ out of the cove ? ” 

Sam ceased rowing in order to gaze in the 
direction indicated by Tom’s outstretched 


262 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

finger, and an exclamation of dismay burst 
from his lips as he cried : 

“ That’s him sure enough ! Now, what 
kind of mischief do you reckon he’s been up 
to?” 

“With all hands of us an’ the ‘Sally’ 
away from home, I don’t allow he could kick up 
very much of a row,” Tom replied carelessly, 
and added with a hearty laugh, “ I reckon 
he was chafin’ some under the collar when he 
found we’d got out of his way.” 

“ Unless he fooled with the lobster car, I 
don’t s’pose he could do much mischief,” Sam 
said half to himself ; “ but yet it seems as if 
he must have cut up some kind of a shine, else 
why is he goin’ off so peaceable like ? ” 

“ ’Cause there was nobody ashore to pick up 
a fuss with,” Tom replied in a tone of satisfac- 
tion. “ I wish Uncle Ben would let Mr. Rowe, 
an’ you, an’ me serve the old pirate out once I 
I’ll bet he wouldn’t want to come foolin’ ’round 
this island ag’in I ” 

The lads gave no further attention to Cap- 
tain Doak, after making certain that he was 
pulling toward the Port at his best pace, and 
five minutes later their dory had rounded 


Getting Even 263 

the point, opening to view the shore of the 
cove. 

Then it was that both the boys ceased row- 
ing very suddenly, as they gave vent to a cry 
of mingled anger and sorrow, for the shanty 
appeared to be in a blaze, with the flames al- 
ready bursting out through the roof. 

'' That's what the old heathen has been 
doin' ! " Tom cried in a rage, as he dipped his 
oars deep in the water. “ Pull around, Sam, 
so's we can overhaul him, an' no matter how 
big he is. I'll give him a dose that won't be 
forgotten very soon ! " 

Even if we could get the best of him, 
there's no use chasin' his boat ; he's got a good 
mile the start, an' we'd never be able to make 
that up 'twixt here an' the Port. Pull, Tom, 
pull the best you know how, an' perhaps we 
can save some few of the things ! " 

It's too late now, for the whole place is in 
a light blaze," Tom replied sorrowfully, but he 
obeyed the command to the best of his ability, 
and the dory was sent over the water at a rate 
of speed which, it is safe to say, she had never 
equaled. 

The boys did not slow down on nearing the 


264 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

shore, but ran her at full speed high up on the 
sand, leaping over the rail even as she struck, 
but before they had taken a single step in the 
direction of the shanty it was possible to see 
that any efforts of theirs would be useless. 

Uncle Ben’s home, slightly built of inflam- 
mable material, was burning fiercely, the 
flames leaping up from every point, and it 
could be understood that Captain Doak had 
waited until making certain his villainous 
work was thoroughly performed before he left 
the island. 

The boys ran at full speed, however, hardly 
knowing what they did, and came to a halt 
only when the heat of the fire prevented any 
nearer approach. Here they stood watching 
the devouring flames in silence a full minute, 
when Tom, turning in the direction of the 
Port, shook his fist threateningly as he cried 
angrily : 

“ It makes no difference what Uncle Ben 
says, if ever I come within strikin’ distance of 
that miserable pirate ! The idea of burnin’ a 
shanty when he couldn’t do himself any good, 
but only to turn an old man outer house an’ 
home ! Come on, Sam, even if we can’t catch 


Getting Even 265 

him, we^ll tell the folks at the Port what he 
has done, an^ 1^11 be w^ay out of my reckoning 
if they don’t make it hot for him before he’s 
many hours older ! ” 

‘‘ We can’t spend the time to go there till 
after the traps have been hauled, ’cause even 
if the shanty is burned we’ve got to take care 
of the lobsters,” Sam replied with a sigh. 

If we could only rig up some kind of a 
place for Uncle Ben to sleep in when he gets 
back I ” 

He’ll have the ^ Sally,’ won’t he ? We 
can live aboard of her till another house is 
built ; but it’ll take all the money that comes 
in from the mackerel to pay for new lumber.” 

I forgot that we’d have the schooner for a 
home, so things ain’t quite so bad as they 
might have been. See here, Tom, we mustn’t 
think of runnin’ after Cap’en Doak, for there’s 
no knowin’ but that we’ll have to carry a load 
of lobsters to the Port, an’ if that’s so, we 
oughter get off early, ’cause we must be back 
before dark.” 

Why ? There’s no place here for us to 
sleep, ’less we camp under the trees, an’ if we 
have to go to the Port I’m thinkin’ we’d best 


266 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

stay there till mornin’, ’cause there’s no show 
Uncle Ben can get back even as early as to- 
morrow.” 

“ You’re right ; but even at that we can’t 
hang ’round here very long, seein’s how 
there’s nothin’ to be done. Let’s pull the 
traps, an’ then make up our minds what we’d 
best do.” 

“ Say, we’ve got to go to the town, ’cause 
there ain’t anythin’ here to eat, an’ I’m mighty 
hungry already.” 

“ Come on, then ; we’ll tackle the traps, for 
it’s a case of goin’ hungry till that work has 
been done an’ we’ve pulled a heavy dory six 
or seven miles I ” 


CHAPTER XXI 


AT THE POET 

Tom^s hunger increased as he realized that 
it would be impossible to get anything to eat 
until after considerable heavy work had been 
done, and he was already tired with the labors 
of the day ; but since Sam did not complain, 
he would have been ashamed to speak of his 
own desires or needs, and followed his com- 
rade back to where they had so hastily left the 
dory. 

It^s goin’ to come pretty tough on us, I 
reckon ; but we oughter be willin^ to tire our- 
selves a big bit, seein^s this is about the best 
chance we^ll ever have to show Uncle Ben 
what we^re willin^ to do toward squarin’ up 
for his bein’ so good to us,” Sam said, as if be- 
lieving his companion needed heartening, and 
Tom replied stoutly, forcing a smile to his 
lips : 

Don’t get it inter your head that I’m goin’ 
to cry baby jest ’cause I can’t fill myself up 
267 


268 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

with things to eat. I’ve been hungry many a 
time when I didn’t see any show ahead for 
gettin’ the next day’s breakfast, an’ reckon I 
can hold out as long as you. It won’t do any 
harm if we lay in a cargo of water. My 
mouth is pretty dry, an’ that old pirate 
couldn’t play any funny business with the 
spring.” 

Then the boys refreshed themselves with 
cold water, after which they launched the 
dory to set about the work of hauling traps, 
each doing his best to make it appear that 
plenty of exercise was the one thing needed at 
that time. 

The catch was not as large as on the 
previous night, but yet they brought in so 
many lobsters that Sam knew from experience 
it would not be wise to leave such a large 
number in the car any length of time, and 
said with an air of wisdom as they neared the 
cove on their return : 

We’d have to go to the Port even though 
the shanty hadn’t been burned, an’ if we 
count on gettin’ there before dark it’s a case 
of hustlin’ right lively from now on. We’ll 
take as big a cargo as can be carried in good 


At the Port 269 

shape, an' be off. Do you want another drink 
of water ? " 

I could stow away considerable, but I 
reckon we'd better not stop to go to the spring. 
The sooner we strike the Port the sooner we’ll 
get somethin' to eat, an' I'm growin' mighty 
hollow inside." 

It was neither a long nor a difficult task to 
take from the car, by aid of a gaff, as many 
lobsters as were needed to make up a fairly 
good cargo for the dory, and when this had 
been done the lads buckled down to the oars 
once more, both feeling so tired that under any 
other circumstances they would have believed 
it absolutely impossible to make the journey. 

With so heavy a load the boat moved slug- 
gishly through the water, despite all their 
efforts, and, to add to their labor, the wind was 
dead ahead. 

It's goin' to be a long pull ; but Uncle Ben 
says that any job can be done by stickin'at it. 
So don't let's look around to see how near we 
are, but keep on workin' the oars till we get 
there," Sam said with a brave effort at cheer- 
fulness as he set the example. 

The lads were not inclined for conversation 


270 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

during the journey ; both were nearly ex- 
hausted, and it required all their courage to 
continue at the laborious task. It really 
seemed as if the dory lay like a log on the 
water, and no matter how they tugged at the 
oars, which had apparently grown wonder- 
fully heavy since morning, it seemed impos- 
sible to crawl away from the island. 

Tom shut his teeth tightly as he worked, 
while Sam, trusting that his comrade would 
steer the craft, kept his eyes fixed upon the 
bottom of the boat, striving manfully to forget 
that he was weary, thirsty, and hungry. The 
rippling of the water against the side of the 
dory was the only sound to be heard ; the sun, 
although very near to setting, sent his most 
fervent rays across the lazy swell of the ocean 
as if trying to discourage the toiling lads, 
while the warm wind, instead of refreshing, 
only added to their discomfort. 

But, following Uncle Ben^s advice, they 
“ stuck at it without any interval of rest, 
and, as a matter of course, decreased the dis- 
tance between themselves and the Port by a 
certain number of inches with every stroke of 
the oars. 


At the Port 


271 


Finally, just when the sun had sunk out of 
sight behind the western hills, the dory poked 
her nose around that point of land which 
formed the eastern arm, or side, of Southport 
harbor, and Sam said with a long-drawn sigh 
of relief as he pulled a trifle more vigorously 
at the oars : 

It surely seems as if we^d been rowin^ two 
or three days. I did think, when Uncle Ben 
told me I might live with him on Apple 
Island, that the time never could come when 
rd be played out by pullin^ a boat, ^cause of 
bein^ so glad that I had a decent home once 
more ; but if we^d been much longer rowin^ 
over here I ain^t certain as I could have stuck 
at it.^^ 

Don^t talk about it,^^ Tom replied with a 
groan. Fm so near dead that if I stop to 
think Vll tumble over. It did seem a spell 
ago as if I was starvin^ ; but now Fd. rather 
lay down an^ sleep than have the best dinner 
that ever was cooked ! 

Ten minutes later the dory was made fast 
to the pier, and, by the rarest good fortune, 
the flrst person in Southport who learned of 
their arrival was Mr. Mansfleld. He had just 


272 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

sauntered down on the wharf when Sam 
crawled ashore with the painter, and, as a 
matter of course, was curious to learn why 
they had come without Uncle Ben. 

But little time was spent in telling the 
story, for no sooner had Mr. Mansfield gotten 
an inkling of the mischief done, than he 
turned abruptly, almost running up the street. 

Now what?” Tom, who had thrown him- 
self full length on the pier, asked with mild 
curiosity, being so nearly exhausted that he 
could not display a very lively interest in any- 
thing. 

“ I reckon he^s gone to tell the folks what^s 
been done. We’ll have to wait here.” 

That’s jest what I want to do, an’ he 
needn’t hurry back on my account, for I could 
stay right where I am till mornih’ an’ not fret 
myself very much.” 

There was little need for the boys to specu- 
late as to the reason for Mr. Mansfield’s sud- 
den departure. He returned within five 
minutes and at once began to ask many ques- 
tions, to all of which Sam replied as well as 
he was able ; but before having given any 
great amount of information his eyes closed in 


At the Port 


273 


sleep, despite all his efforts to keep them open, 
and the shopkeeper exclaimed in a tone of 
self-reproach : 

I come mighty nigh bein' a brute to keep 
you here talkin', when, 'cordin' to what's been 
said, you must have been workin' like beavers 
since before daybreak. Toddle up to my 
house an' go to bed. There ain't any chance 
Uncle Ben can get back within the next four 
an' twenty hours." 

Not only did Mr. Mansfield provide them 
with a bed, but his wife insisted on their eat- 
ing a hearty meal before lying down, and 
when, finally, the two lads had an opportunity 
to crawl between the lavender-scented sheets, 
Tom said with a sigh of content : 

It pays to get awfully tired, jest for the 
sake of findin' out how^ nice it is to go to bed." 

Then it was as if he had dropped into 
dreamland on the instant, for the words were 
hardly more than out of his mouth before he 
was breathing heavily. And Sam did not 
have time to realize the condition of his com- 
rade, for he himself w^as lost in the blissful 
unconsciousness of slumber. 

Not until the sun had been looking in at the 


274 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

chamber window of Mr. Mansfield’s house a 
full hour did the boys realize where they 
were, and then Sam jumped out of bed as he 
cried : 

“ Just think of it, Tom, after all our work 
to get the lobsters here, we left them in the 
dory all night, an’ it’ll be the biggest kind of 
luck if any of ’em are alive now ! ” 

Very hurriedly did the boys dress, and they 
would have hastened out of the house on the 
instant if Mrs. Mansfield had not insisted on 
their partaking of the breakfast which had 
been kept so long waiting. 

“ William took care of the lobsters last 
night, so there’s no reason why you should be 
in such a hurry,” she said when Sam at- 
tempted to explain why they should be on the 
pier as soon as possible. Captain Doak won’t 
be brought before ’Squire Kelly till nine 
o’clock, an’ there’s nothing you can do till 
then.” 

“ Cap’en Doak I ” Sam repeated in amaze- 
ment. Why is he to come up before the 
’Squire?” 

“ Because he burned Uncle Ben’s house, of 
course,” the good woman replied sharply. 


At the Port 


275 


Do you suppose the people of the Port are 
going to allow him to carry on at such a rate? 
He will have a trial and be punished for what 
he has done, so William says/^ 

This was most pleasing news to Tom, who 
did not hesitate to say he hoped the old 
heathen would be sent to prison for a long 
time ; but Sam, although believing the cul- 
prit should be punished, felt sad because the 
man was to answer for his misdeeds. 

Oh,^’ he said, as if trying to find some ex- 
cuse for the man who had abused him so long, 
he ain’t anywhere near so bad when he’s 
sober.” 

“ Then it’s time he was put where he can’t be 
anything else,” Mrs. Mansfield replied sharply. 
“ I’ve been longing to have him brought up 
to answer for his tricks ever since your mother 
died. She, poor woman, the same as had the 
life worried out of her by that miserable 
creature ! ” 

Mrs. Mansfield was not the only person in 
town who believed the time had come when 
Captain Doak should be put where he could 
not give way to his appetite and his temper, 
as the boys learned when they went out on the 


276 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

street after having eaten what Tom declared 
was ‘‘ the breakfast of their lives/’ 

The townspeople were determined that 
Uncle Ben’s family should not longer be ex- 
posed to the vicious whims of Eliakim Doak, 
and the testimony of Sam and Tom, who saw 
him pulling away from the island shortly 
after the shanty had been set on fire, was 
sufficient to convict. 

The result of the fire was that the former 
owner of the Sally D.” received a sentence 
of ninety days in the county jail, in addition 
to paying a fine of two hundred dollars ; but 
it was understood that if he left town at once 
the sentence would not be carried into effect 
until he showed himself again in the state. 

It so happened that a lumber-laden vessel 
was on the point of leaving the harbor bound 
for Cuba and on her Captain Doak took pas- 
sage, thus passing out of the lives of those 
whom he had wronged, a,nd from that day 
until now neither Uncle Ben’s family, nor any 
citizen of Southport, has ever seen or heard of 
him. 

When the trial had been brought to an end 
and the angry citizens saw Eliakim leave the 


At the Port 


277 

harbor on the Cuban-bound craft, Sam and 
Tom were called upon to tell over and over 
again the story of the previous day^s good and 
bad happenings, and when the two lads in- 
sisted that they must set out for Apple Island 
in order to arrive before dark Mr. Mansfield 
said as he went with them to the pier : 

You are to tell Uncle Ben that we of the 
Port will buy lumber enough to build him a 
regular house, an^ he^s to come over here after 
it when he gets back from Portland. Say to 
him that we count it our duty to make up for 
the mischief Eliakim has done, an’ when he’s 
ready to put up the buildin’ we’ll all lend a 
hand. I reckon we’ll make it a reg’lar vaca- 
tion time. You’ll find that mother has sent 
down food enough to keep you from bein’ 
hungry till the schooner comes back, an’ it 
won’t be any great hardship if you do have to 
sleep out-of-doors this night.” 

“ You’ve been awful good to us, Mr. Mans- 
field, an’ we won’t forget it,” Sam said, as he 
took his seat in the dory, and Tom added : 

It kinder seems as if everybody was good 
since Uncle Ben took us in hand, an’ I’m 
hopin’ the day’ll come when I can show him 


278 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

how 1 feel on account of what he did when 
he started a family/^ 

Uncle Ben Johnson is the salt of the 
earth, if there's sich a thing, an' the funny 
part of it is that it has taken us folks here at 
the Port so long to find it out. We've got the 
idee now, though, an' will keep it in mind 
mighty fresh." 

Then the journey to Apple Island was be- 
gun, the lads pulling steadily and strong after 
their long rest, and once outside the harbor 
Tom said reflectively : 

I ain't so certain but that your old heathen 
did Uncle Ben a good turn when he set the 
shanty aflre, 'cause now the old man will have 
a decent house, which is more'n would ever 
have come his way if he'd had to spend good 
money buildin' it." 

“ That's 'cause he wants to keep all the 
dollars he can get to help out on raisin' a 
family, an' it strikes me that he's doin' it 
mighty fast, though I ain't certain as we can 
have such high times when there are a good 
many fellows around." 

Then the lads fell to discussing what would 
be the result after Uncle Ben's plan had been 


At the Port 


279 

fully carried into execution, and they were 
not at an end of it when the dory was run up 
on the sand near the ruins of the shanty. 

Again was it time to attend to the traps, 
and, stopping only to catch cunners enough 
to serve as bait, the lads went about their 
task, believing that when the work was come 
to an end they must perforce find for them- 
selves beds among the bushes, for it did not 
seem possible the Sally ’’ could return from 
Portland until another day had passed. 

The catch was not large on this afternoon, 
although the labor of hauling the pots was as 
great as if they had loaded the dory gunwale 
deep with lobsters, and the last one had been 
thrown into the car just as the sun sank out 
of sight. 

I reckon we’d better hustle if we count on 
findin’ a good place for sleeping ’cause it’ll be 

dark in the woods. I’m Hello ! There’s 

the ‘ Sally ’ ! Why do you s’pose she didn’t 
go to Portland ? ” 


CHAPTER XXII 


FREIGHTING LUMBER 

Even Uncle Ben found it difficult to re- 
main sedate, as the head of a family should, 
when Sam and Tom pulled alongside. Little 
Joey was running fore and aft on the deck, 
clapping his hands as he screamed for very 
joy, while Mr. Rowe leaned over the rail to 
shout something which the lads could not 
understand, and the old lobster catcher tried 
hard to appear unconcerned, but he could 
hold out no longer when the boys clambered 
on board. 

Reaching out a hand to each of them he 
cried in a tone of triumph, as if it was no 
longer possible for him to keep the secret : 

“ We got two hundred an’ ten dollars for 
the catch, lads I Only think of that ! Near 
to half what the ‘ Sally ’ has cost us ! ” 

An’ it ain’t the last two-hundred-dollar 
fare we’ll take ’twixt now an’ winter ! ” Mr. 
Rowe cried from amid the mainsail which he 
280 


Freighting Lumber 281 

was trying to snug down and at the same 
time listen to what was being said. 

'' But how did you get back so quickly ? ” 
Sam asked. We didn’t allow to see you 
before to-morrow night I ” 

Mr. Rowe could no longer attend to his 
work, but, emerging from the billowy folds of 
canvas, he cried exultantly : 

We got back so soon because the ' Sally ’ 
is a reg’lar flyer ! When 1 sailed with Elia- 
kim I allowed she could go some, but since 
we’ve shifted her rig she don’t touch the water 
at all — jest skims over the top like one of 
them ’ere flyin’ flsh. Why, lads, she’s made 
as good as eleven knots ever since we parted 
company with you, an’ if that ain’t goin’ some 
I’d like to know what you call it?” 

“She surely is a swift craft! ’’Uncle Ben 
added emphatically, and one had only to look 
at his face in order to understand that a sailor’s 
love for a beautiful vessel was taking root in 
his heart. “ Did you lads carry a load of 
lobsters to the Port ? ” 

“ Ay, that we did, an’ have only been home 
long enough to pull the pots,” Sam replied, at 
a loss to know how he should break the sad 


282 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

news to the old man. We had a full cargo, 
though I'm thinkin' we wouldn't have gone 

if it hadn't been for Cap'en Doak " 

Has he been here again ? " Uncle Ben 
asked in alarm. 

Now it was Tommy's turn to share in the 
story-telling, and, taking the old man by the 
arm, he led him aft, where a view could have 
been had of the shanty if it had still been 
standing, saying as he did so : 

I reckon you can see what's been done ? " 
What do you mean, lad ? What has been 
done?" Uncle Ben asked impatiently, failing 
to note the blackened ruins. 

Can you see the shanty ? " 

A cry of sorrow burst from the old man's 
lips, and his face suddenly paled as he under- 
stood that his home had been reduced to ashes. 

“How did it happen, boys? How could it 

have burned ? Wasn't you here, or did it 

No, that couldn't be, for we didn't leave any 
fire in the stove! " 

“ That pirate of a Doak did it. Uncle Ben 1 " 
Tommy cried passionately. “ We got back 
just in time to see him pullin' outer the cove, 
an' then the shant}^ was in a blaze. But I'm 


Freighting Lumber 283 

thinkin^ he won^t set any more houses afire, 
leastways, till that vessel gets to Cuba ! ” 

As a matter of course Uncle Ben could not 
understand the meaning of the words and no 
small amount of time was spent in telling the 
whole story. When all the details had been 
given, and not until then, did Reuben Rowe 
speak, when, raising his hand as if taking an 
oath, he cried angrily : 

“ I hope that miserable specimen of a man 
will know what it is to go hungry before he 
dies, an^ if I’m anywhere around I’ll chuck 
good grub away before givin’ him the littlest 
bit ! ” 

Now, now, Reuben, that’s bein’ down- 
right wicked,” Uncle Ben cried, seizing Mr. 
Rowe by the arm. We’ll hope Eliakim will 
come in time to realize what he’s about, an’ 
turn from the evil of his ways.” 

Wa’al, I s’pose I’m wishin’ somethin’ of 
the same thing ; but at the same time I’d like 
to have a hand in the turnin’ of him, an’ then 
I’ll go bail he’d know it had been done ! ” and 
Mr. Rowe went back to snugging down the 
mainsail as if fearing he could not contain his 
wrath before the head of the family. 


284 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Wasn’t anythin’ saved from the fire ? ” 
Uncle Ben asked after a long pause. 

“ Everythin’ was burning when we got 
ashore, an’ now we’ll have to live aboard the 
schooner, I reckon,” Tom replied. 

“ If the folks at the Port are goin’ to furnish 
lumber for a new house, why not run over 
there to-night? ” Reuben asked, ceasing work 
suddenly again. The boys have ’tended to 
the pots an’ there bein’ nothin’ here for us to 
do we may as well be savin’ time.” 

“ Do as you like, Reuben, do as you like,” 
the old man said in a sorrowful tone as he 
turned abruptly and went into the cabin, Mr. 
Rowe saying in a whisper as Uncle Ben de- 
scended the companionway : 

He’s takin’ it mightily to heart, an’ I can’t 
say as he’s to be blamed. The shanty wasn’t 
much as houses go, but he’d built it himself, 
an’ lived in it all his life, so to speak. It 
won’t make any difference how good a buildin’ 
goes up in its place, he’ll allers be mournin’ 
for the old one. Wa’al, it can’t be helped 
now, though I do wish Eliakim hadn’t been 
let off quite so easy. In with the anchor, 
lads, an’ we’ll make harbor off the Port before 


Freighting Lumber 285 

midnight. Bear a hand lively, an^ perhaps 
it'll chirk Uncle Ben up a bit if he hears us 
bustlin’ ’round.” 

Not until the Sally ” was under way once 
more, eating up the miles on her way to 
Southport, did Uncle Ben come out of the 
cabin, and then, in the hope of cheering him 
ever so little, Sam went to his side, taking 
him by the hand. 

“ I’d try not to feel so awfully bad. Uncle 
Ben, for if the family grows any bigger you’d 
had to have another house or else left some 
of us out in the rain.” 

I know it, Sammy, I know it, but some- 
how I can’t help feelin’ mighty lonesome ’cause 
the shanty’s gone, an’ what makes it seem 
worse is that it wouldn’t have been burned if 
I hadn’t been so childish ’bout wantin’ to go 
on the ^ Sally’s ’ first cruise. If I had stayed 
at home Eliakim never’d done sich a wicked 
thing.” 

Now that ain’t certain. Uncle Ben, ’cause 
perhaps you’d been out pullin’ pots, an’ he’d 
had the same chance. You’ll like the new 
house just as well after we get it built,” 
and Sam patted the old man’s hand as 


286 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

he would have done to soothe a distressed 
baby. 

It’ll never be quite the same, Sammy boy, 
but I ain’t got any right to brood over what 
can’t be helped, an’ I’ll try mighty hard to 
keep it from my mind. S’pose you an’ I 
cook supper ? That’ll kinder take up our 
attention.” 

Little Joey came below to help the cooks, 
leaving Mr. Rowe and Tom to run the 
“ Sally,” and so elaborate were Uncle Ben’s 
plans for the meal that the schooner was 
made fast to the dock at Southport before 
supper had been made ready. 

It was so late in the evening that the 
citizens of Southport were not abroad to note 
the arrival, and, therefore, the family ” had 
no visitors. 

It was Mr. Mansfield who discovered next 
morning that the “ Sally ” was in the harbor, 
and he came over the rail before a single 
member of the family ” had opened his eyes. 

I was allowin’ to find you all in the 
dumps, when I saw the ^ Sally ’ at the dock ; 
but I reckon you ain’t takin’ it so terrible 
hard, Uncle Ben, seein’s how you can sleep so 


Freighting Lumber 287 

long/^ the shopkeeper cried as he entered the 
cabin without ceremony, and the old lobster 
catcher replied almost cheerily : 

“It did strike me kinder hard at first, 
William, for I^d got to have a mighty 
friendly feelin^ for the old shanty, but if the 
family never has any greater misfortune 
than that, God will be good to us/’ 

“ I reckon you’re right, as you allers are. 
Uncle Ben. Now, instead of thinkin’ ’bout 
what’s gone up in smoke, we’ll look ahead to 
the house you’re goin’ to have. We here at 
the Port allow to chip in for the lumber, an’ 
as soon as it has been freighted to the island, 
we’re countin’ on havin’ a regular old-fashioned 
raisin’ bee, to help you put it together. Are 
you ready to take on a load now ? ” 

“ The sooner the better,” Uncle Ben replied, 
as if almost ashamed to accept the gift. “ I’m 
hopin’ everybody knows that we’ll be mighty 
grateful for what’s bein’ done, an’ if ever I get 

the chance to do ” 

“ You’ve had the chance, an’ taken right 
hold of it. Uncle Ben. It has made us feel 
like small potatoes to see you tryin’ to gather 
into a family them who needed a home, an’ 


288 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

now we’re goin’ to have a share in the scheme. 
We’ll set right about haulin’ the lumber, an’ I 
reckon the first hoi'se-load will be here by the 
time you’ve had breakfast.” 

It surely seemed as if every man and horse 
in Southport was engaged in loading the 
schooner, and it was hardly more than noon, 
thanks to the many pairs of willing hands, 
before the “ Sally ’’had as much aboard as it 
was deemed wise to take on the first trip. 

The afternoon was less than half spent when 
the “ family ” were on Apple Island once 
more, with their schooner riding at anchor in 
the little cove, and now, indeed, was it neces- 
sary that every member do his utmost in the 
way of work. Sam and Tom set off to haul 
the traps, while Uncle Ben, Reuben and even 
little Joey, labored industriously throwing 
the lumber overboard that it might be rafted 
to the shore. 

It was considerably past midnight when 
this day’s work was ended, and a more weary 
crew never turned into the Sally D.’s” 
bunks, to be awakened next morning at day- 
break that they might return to the Port for 
another cargo. 


Freighting Lumber 289 

And so this work was kept up until all the 
lumber was freighted. There had been no 
neglect of the lobster industry, even when the 
two boys were so tired that it seemed impos- 
sible for them to pull the dory around the 
island, and, as a matter of course, no fishing 
had been indulged in, even though all knew 
it might well be that they could get another 
large catch of mackerel. Sam had indeed pro- 
posed that they fish one forenoon out of every 
two, hauling the pots in the night; but to this 
Uncle Ben would not listen. 

“ You boys are already doin’ more work 
than might well be expected of men, an’ I 
don’t count on drivin’ willin’ horses to death 
for the sake of gettin’ a few more dollars,” 
the old lobster catcher said, very decidedly. 
“ Next week the folks from the Port are 
cornin’ over to stay quite a spell, an’ what 
with feedin’ them, lookin’ after the traps, an’ 
takin’ a turn now an’ then at carpenterin’, 
I’m allowin’ you’ll have your hands full. 
Early Monday mornin’ you two lads are to 
go over with Reuben after them as are willin’ 
to help us, an’ I reckon then is the time we’d 
best empty our car of lobsters.” 


290 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

Therefore it was that the Sally lay in 
the cove several days, serving the family as a 
home, and as Uncle Ben had planned so was 
it done. When the schooner made Southport 
early on the following Monday morning, they 
found waiting for them so many of the citizens 
that Sam was greatly alarmed lest he and Tom 
would not be able to cook food enough, even 
though they worked every moment of the 
time. 

The good people of the Port had no idea of 
allowing Uncle Ben to feed such an army, but 
had ready on the pier what Tom called a 
regTar stack of provisions to be put on 
board, and there was no question but that 
they counted on enjoying themselves during 
such time as the new house was being built. 

Among the belongings on the pier was a 
large canvas tent, in which the workmen were 
to sleep, and Sam said, as he and Tom were 
helping stow the goods on the Sally’s ” 
deck : 

“ What worries me is that Uncle Ben will 
get terribly mixed up with so many people 
loafin’ ’round.” 

“ I reckon he’ll keep himself straight when 


Freighting Lumber 291 

he sees the house goin' up. Leastways, he’s 
got a mighty good idee of what’s goin’ to hap- 
pen, for I heard him tell Mr. Rowe that he 
an’ us two better try to get three or four bush- 
els of clams to-night, if we can pull the pots 
in time. Clam diggin’ is about the only part 
of x\pple Island that I don’t like,” Tommy 
added ruefully, “ an’ these folks will eat a ter- 
rible big pile, I’m thinkin’.” 

Then you don’t count on doin’ it?” 

“ Don’t count on doin’ it? Say, Sam, what 
do you take me for? Do you think I 
wouldn’t do anythin’ Uncle Ben wanted, 
whether I liked it or not ? If he asked me to 
stand on my head so’s to hang dish-towels on 
my feet, you’d see me upside down from 
mornin’ till night.” 

Get on there with that dunnage ! ” Mr. 
Rowe called from the quarter-deck, for he was 
playing the part of captain to perfection, on 
this morning when he had as spectators nearly 
every person in Southport. “Bear a hand 
lively, you boys, for I’m wantin’ to get under 
way mighty quick ! ” 

This served to remind the merrymaking 
carpenters that they also must bear a hand. 


292 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

In a twinkling the stores and tent were on the 
schooner’s deck, while half a dozen men seized 
each halyard, running up the canvas in a 
jiffy, and the '' Sally ” sailed out of the harbor 
with the jolliest lot of passengers that could 
have been found in a month’s search. 


CHAPTER XXIII 


THE FAMILY HOME 

The men of Southport, who had awakened 
to the knowledge that Uncle Ben^s scheme of 
giving a home to boys who needed and were 
willing to work for one, had come to Apple 
Island intending to do all they could toward 
building such a house as would provide for 
the needs of the future, but at the same time 
they counted on mixing a good deal of pleas- 
ure with their labor. 

They behaved more like lads out for a holi- 
day than staid, respectable citizens of a slow 
town. It seemed to have been agreed that the 
family ” should not be allowed to do any 
more work than was absolutely necessary, for 
when Uncle Ben and the boys- made ready to 
carry the visitors ashore in the dories Mr. 
Mansfield said in a tone of command : 

All you who live here on the island are to 
keep your fingers outof this job, except when it 
can be proven that you are really achin^ to work. 

293 


294 The Cruise of the Sally D. ^ 

We’ll get this truck ashore, set up the tent, ^ 
an’ put our dunnage inter it. I reckon that’ll j 
be enough for one day. In the mornin’ we’ll ]« 
begin buildin’, an’ the family are to keep on ^ 
with the reg’lar business same’s if we wasn’t 1 
here.” ■ 

“ But we can set you ashore, William,” 
Uncle Ben said pleadingly. 

“ You’ll do nothin’ of the kind, Benny. If 
there ain’t anythin’ better to be done go up on 
the cliffs an’ watch us put things to rights.” 

Then I allow now’s the time when we’d 
better get about the clam-diggin’, an’ we’ll 
need a pile of ’em if we’re to feed sich a 
crowd,” Uncle Ben said with what was very 
like a sigh because his visitors were bent on 
working instead of pleasuring. 

They’ll be doin’ mighty well to eat up all 
the stuff that was put aboard at the Port,” 
Sam suggested, hoping that it might not be 
thought necessary to provide so very much in 
the way of provisions, for clam-digging was 
not to his liking. 

I allow they’ve got stores enough,” Uncle 
Ben replied placidly ; “ but out here they’ll 
be lookin’ for clams an’ lobsters, to say nothin’ 


The Family Home 295 

of fried cunners, an’ we must see to it that 
they ain’t disappointed.” 

Now, as any one who has tried it knows 
full well, there is nothing like sport in the 
task of digging clams, and to Sam it was the 
most disagreeable work that could be per- 
formed ; but he set about it with a thoroughly 
good imitation of cheerfulness, because it was 
Uncle Ben who had given the word of com- 
mand, and he was eager to show his gratitude 
for what the old man had done in his behalf. 

When the clam-diggers returned to the cove, 
their baskets filled to overfiowing, the tent had 
been set up, the goods brought from the Port 
stowed awa}^ in it, and the volunteer carpen- 
ters were exploring the island, shouting and 
laughing like a party of schoolboys out on a 
holiday. 

It seems jest like a circus,” Tommy said 
in a whisper to Sam, while little Joey begged 
that he might go nearer the tent to see it more 
plainly. Say, wouldn’t you like to get 
inside? ” 

Yes, but perhaps they wouldn’t like to 
have us snoopin’ ’round. I reckon we’d bet- 
ter stay aboard the ^ Sally ’ when there isn’t 


296 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

any work to be done ashore, an’ besides, you 
an’ I won’t have time to fool very much if 
we’ve got to cook for this whole crowd.” 

Hello, Uncle Ben I ” Mr. Mansfield shouted 
from a distance. “ Send your cooks up to the 
tent an’ let ’em overhaul our stores to get 
what’s needed for supper ! I reckon it would 
be easier for all hands if you brought the cook- 
stove from the ‘ Sally,’ an’ did the cookin’ 
under canvas, eh?” 

Much to the delight of the cooks, and par- 
ticularly to little Joey, it was finally decided 
that this should be done, and during that 
afternoon Sam and Tommy stood over the 
stove making clam chowder, and frying cun- 
ners as fast as Mr. Rowe could catch them, 
until it really seemed as if they had prepared 
food enough to provide every man, woman 
and child in Southport with at least one hearty 
meal. 

The Sally ” was almost forgotten by the 
boys in the novelty of the tent ; but before 
another day had passed they were decidedly 
of the opinion that it was much more easy to 
perform the duties of cooks in the snug cabin 
of the schooner, than on shore under canvas. 


The Family Home 297 

Next morning the visitors set about their 
task in earnest, and not only Uncle Ben, but 
all his family, were astonished to learn that it 
was the intention of the volunteer carpenters 
to build a large house, in which should be not 
less than eight bedrooms in addition to kitchen 
and sitting-room. 

“ Vm allowin’ that your family is bound to 
grow mighty fast, as soon as folks get the idee 
of what you’re about, an’ so long as we’re goin’ 
to put up a new house, it’s no more’n common 
sense to make it big enough to take care of as 
many as you may adopt,” Mr. Mansfield said 
in reply to Uncle Ben’s remonstrance against 
the erection of what he called a “ reg’lar 
hotel.” 

But I shan’t have anythin’ to put inter 
the rooms,” the old lobster catcher added al- 
most mournfully. 

I’m allowin’ the women folks will look 
after that part of it. Uncle Ben,” Mr. Mansfield 
replied. “ Now there’s mother, she told me 
to put up sich a house as would shelter all the 
homeless youngsters you might pick up for 
the rest of your life, an’ she allowed that the 
Southport Sewin’ Circle had agreed to see you 


298 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

had furniture enough to make it look com- 
fortable. We’re goin’ to put a cellar under 
the whole buildin’, for we’ve got rocks in 
plenty for the wall. Then you must have a 
wood-shed that’ll hold fuel for six months of 
fires, an’ them cooks are to be put inter quar- 
ters that’ll make their eyes stick out. Sammy 
Cushing is quite a hand at mixin’ up some- 
thin’ good to eat, an’ I’m kinder anxious to 
see what sort of a fist he can make of it with 
everythin’ convenient to hand.” 

It was useless for Uncle Ben to protest. 
The citizens of Southport had decided what 
was needed, and accompanied their decision 
with lumber sufficient to carry it into execu- 
tion. Mr. Mansfield and Deacon Stubbs had 
even gone so far as to make rough plans for 
the new house, and the others were determined 
these should be adhered to so far as might be 
possible. 

Therefore it was that the visitors worked 
as had been agreed upon ; Tom and Sam were 
kept busy from morning until night cooking 
food, and little Joey found it quite as much 
as he could do to carry to the tent the wood 
chopped by Mr. Rowe. Uncle Ben hauled 


299 


The Family Home 

the pots and acted as ship-keeper for the 
Sally,” lying at anchor in the cove, when, 
as Reuben said, she oughter be out chasin' 
mackerel.” Every person on the island was 
busy during all the hours of daylight, save on 
the Sabbath, from the day the work was begun 
on the family home until it was so nearly com- 
pleted that all the meals were served in what 
Mr. Mansfield had called the sitting-room. 

Talk 'bout swell houses ! ” Tom said one 
evening when he and Sam were privately in- 
specting the building. “ It's goin' to knock 
the spots outer everythin' 'round here, an' yet 
I'm thinkin' Uncle Ben had rather have the 
old shanty back.” 

“ 'Course he had, 'cause he built that him- 
self; but jest wait till he gets the hang of 
livin' in a place like this, an' then he'll be 
contented as a kitten.” 

The kitchen was roomy and pleasant, as 
Mr. Mansfield had promised, and it really 
seemed to Sam and Tommy that their labors 
as cooks were lightened fully one-half by the 
many conveniences, chief of which was a plan 
of Deacon Stubbs' for bringing water by pipes 
direct from the spring into the house. 


300 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

'' It^s the biggest thing anywhere hound 
these parts/^ Tommy said in a tone of appro- 
bation on a certain evening when the people 
from Southport had retired to the tent, and 
the family were alone in the new kitchen. 
“ You could get a big crowd of boys in here, 
by stowin’ ’em snug.” 

“That’s jest it. Tommy, that’s jest it,” Uncle 
Ben replied, and his tone was so mournful 
that the others looked at him in surprise. 
“ You see I kinder allowed that we’d go slow 
in pickin’ up the family, so’s to make certain 
of gettin’ boys that were most in need of a 
home ; but now we’ve got sich a big house, it 
stands us in hand to fill it up as soon as the 
work can be done. I’ve been thinkin’ that 
I oughter hunt ’round right away to find 
enough for the rooms — that is, when we’ve 
got somethin’ in the way of furniture to put 
in ’em.” 

“ Better go slow an’ sure,” Mr. Rowe said 
in a tone of caution. “ One or two lads who 
didn’t care whether they stuck by the rules an’ 
regerlations would knock the whole scheme 
inter a cocked hat.” 

“ That’s it, Reuben, that’s jest it, an’ yet 


The Family Home 301 

what’er we goin' to do with this big ark of a 
house ? '' 

Leave her jest where she is, Uncle Ben,” 
Mr. Rowe replied sagely. In the first place, 
even if every room was filled chock-a-block 
with beds an^ chairs you couldn’t take care of 
a raft of boys yet a while. We’ve got to get 
settled down inter runnin’ shape first. The 
‘ Sally ’ must earn for us what’ll buy provi- 
sions for the winter, else the family would go 
hungry durin’ cold weather. I’d say that if 
we got to goin’ by next spring it would be the 
most any crew could do. Then we’ll shove 
the schooner inter some big port, like Boston 
or New York, an’ I’ll guarantee you can take 
your pick of lads.” 

Uncle Ben was forced to admit that there 
was a deal of sound common sense in Mr. 
Rowe’s remarks, and he said in his usual 
placid manner, as he led the “ family ” to bed 
on board the “ Sally,” after the evening de- 
votions : 

“ I reckon we’ll let it go your way, Reuben, 
an’ trust to its bein’ the proper thing.” 

Proper ! It ain’t anythin’ else, unless 
you’re willin’ to take the chances of breakin’ 


302 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

the whole thing up. We’ll be gettin’ ready 
from now till spring, an’ then we’ll fill that 
’ere house as full of boys as a pod is full of 
peas.” 

Then came the day when the men from 
Southport declared that their work was done. 
The big tent was taken down and stowed 
aboard the Sally.” Such of the provisions 
as had not been consumed — and there was a 
large amount, so generously had Mr. Mans- 
field outfitted the party — was carried into the 
cellar of the new house and all was in readi- 
ness for the return trip to Southport. 

“ I’m allowin’ that we’ve done the best we 
knowed how,” Deacon Stubbs said, as he 
halted on the beach, preventing any from 
getting into the waiting dories, “ an’ all that’s 
left for us men to do is give a name to what 
we’ve built. I move, fellow citizens, that we 
call this ’ere structure * Uncle Ben’s Retreat.’ ” 

“ Second the motion ! ” Mr. Mansfield cried 
at the full strength of his lungs, and by way 
of showing that the motion had been carried, 
the visitors gave three such hearty cheers 
that, as Mr. Rowe said, “ the lobsters in the 
cars must have got quite a surprise.” 


The Family Home 303 

Uncle Ben seemed to think it necessary 
some one should be left to guard the new 
dwelling, but Mr. Mansfield declared that the 
whole family must go with them to Southport, 
for the ladies of the Sewing Circle had already 
insisted that they must be present when a 
plan for the housewarming was decided 
upon. 

Now that we’ve got rid of Eliakim Doak, 
there ain’t a man on this ’ere coast mean 
enough to harm so much as a shingle on the 
roof,” the shopkeeper said emphatically, “ an’ 
mother has set her heart on havin’ all hands 
of you down to the church vestry this evenin’.” 

Then Apple Island was temporarily aban- 
doned, and within ten minutes after the 
“ Sally D.” sailed into Southport harbor Uncle 
Ben and his family were being escorted by 
nearly the entire population, as it then seemed, 
to the vestry, where a dinner was being made 
ready for those who had just arrived. 

Not until evening were the details of the 
housewarming ” decided upon ; but before 
that time came Tommy admitted to Sam and 
little Joey that he was almost sorry the good 
people of Southport had come to understand 


304 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

that Uncle Ben’s work was the broadest kind 
of a charity and should be encouraged. 

I’ve been tryin’ to get outside a little of 
what everybody offered me, till it seems as if 
I couldn’t even wiggle,” Tom said mournfully. 
‘‘ Before I struck Uncle Ben it seemed as if it 
would be the biggest kind of a thing if I could 
have enough to eat one day ; but I’m beginnin’ 
to feel as if it didn’t pay to be too much of a 
pig.” 

Tom did not suffer to such an extent, how- 
ever, that he failed of doing his full duty to- 
ward the cake and ice cream which w^ere 
served in the vestry during the evening ; but 
Reuben Rowe noted the fact that he was ready 
and even eager to go when Uncle Ben an- 
nounced that it was time those belonging on 
Apple Island should be aboard the Sally D.” 
for the night. 

It beats all how folks have changed in this 
’ere town since the day I shipped with 
Eliakim Doak,” Mr. Rowe said in a thought- 
ful tone when the ‘‘ family ” were reviewing 
the events of the day before getting into the 
schooner’s bunks. “ I’m allowin’. Uncle Ben, 
that you owe a good deal of this ’ere friendly 


The Family Home 305 

feelin^ to Cap’en Doak, for if he hadn’t tried to 
do all the harm he could, the people wouldn’t 
have waked up to the idee that your scheme 
was the best ever.” 

“ We owe it all to the good Lord, Reuben. 
He * moves in a mysterious way His won- 
ders to perform,’ an’ that’s the right kind 
of a line to keep in mind, lads, when you’re 
feelin’ down to the heel because things don’t 
go exactly as you’d have ’em. I figgered an’ 
figgered, tryin’ to think up a plan for startin’ 
a family, without seein’ my way clear, when 
lo an’ behold, the whole plan is pushed ahead 
in a far bigger way than I counted on, with- 
out my raisin’ a hand, so to speak.” 


CHAPTER XXIV 


THE HOUSE WAKMING 

Next morning Uncle Ben^s family were 
astir bright and early. To be exact, the sun 
had not showed his face when Sammy an- 
nounced that breakfast was ready, and the 
meal had hardly been begun before the tramp 
of many feet told that the good people of 
Southport were bent on making a party call. 

“ I hope I ain’t ungrateful for all that has 
been done to our benefit,” Uncle Ben said as 
he arose from the table to welcome his visitors ; 
‘‘ but I did kinder hope we’d be able to get 
away without any fuss an’ feathers. I’m really 
beginnin’ to be ashamed at bearin’ ’bout what 
I’ve done, as if it was somethin’ outer the gen- 
eral run, an’ it’s growin’ to look as if the 
scheme was gettin’ ahead of me.” 

“ You have done somethin’ outer the gen- 
eral run,” Mr. Rowe replied emphatically. 

I’d be glad to find another man what was 
willin’ to give up all his hard-earned dollars 
306 


The ‘^Housewarming ” 307 

to them as needed a home, an^ the scheme 
never’ll get ahead of you while you're the boss 
of the family." 

There was no further opportunity for private 
conversation, because at this moment Mr. 
Mansfield and Deacon Stubbs came down the 
cuddy stairs with boisterous greetings, insist- 
ing on shaking hands with every member of 
the family," including little Joey. 

We got kinder 'fraid you might give us 
the slip, Benny, by gettin' under way before 
sunrise, so the deacon an' me hurried down 
without waitin' for breakfast," Mr. Mansfield 
began, and on the instant Sam set out clean 
plates as token that the visitors should partake 
of their morning meal aboard the “ Sally D." 

What did you have on your mind, William, 
that made you so keen to see us ? " Uncle Ben 
asked with mild curiosity. 

It's a plan that the women folks cooked 
up last night after you'd left the vestry, an' 
we wanted to make certain it was put through 
'cordin' to their figgerin'. The idee is, Benny, 
that the Retreat must have furniture, else it’ll 
be lonesome like when you begin livin' in it, 
an' there ain't the least little bit of reason 


3o 8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

why the job shouldn’t be finished up brown 
right away. Therefore an’ consekently, as 
the ’Squire would say, we’re goin’ to work at 
the job, seein’s how business here at the Port 
is uncommonly dull for this time of year.” 

“ What is it you count on doin’, William? ” 
Uncle Ben asked, an expression of disquietude 
coming over his face. 

Furnish the new house, of course,” Deacon 
Stubbs said quickly, as if fearing he would 
not have an opportunity to do his full share 
of the talking. ‘^The women are bustlin’ 
’round gettin’ things together, an’ Jim Nason 
is puttin’ the first load on his jigger this very 
minute. All hands of us are goin’ over to 
Apple Island with you ” 

‘‘ We men are goin’ to lend a hand at settin’ 
the stuff ashore, an’ while the women folks 
are puttin’ the new house to rights, we’d like 
to go out in the ‘ Sally ’ for a little deep-sea 
fishin’. It won’t do any harm if you can 
cure a good big fare of cod an’ haddock, an’ 
it’ll kinder be a starter for your winter’s store 
of provisions.” 

Mr. Mansfield ceased speaking at this mo- 
ment because Sam and Tommy had put be- 


The ^‘Housewarming” 309 

fore the guests a plentiful supply of food and 
coffee, and Uncle Ben stood near the com- 
panionway as if bent on beating a retreat, 
until Mr. Rowe asked in a whisper : 

** What seems to be the trouble ? You ain't 
lookin' well." 

There's nothin' the matter with me, 
Reuben, except that it looks as if we was 
gettin' in the way of idlin' too much. We 
can't afford to let up on lobster catchin', an' 
yet how can we 'tend to it if we go out deep- 
sea fishin' when there's a big lot of work to 
be done on the island ? It strikes me that we're 
usin' the * Sally ' more as a toy than a craft 
that must be made to support the family." 

** Don't fret yourself 'bout that, Benny," 
Mr. Mansfield cried with a laugh, for Uncle 
Ben had inadvertently spoken sufficiently 
loud for him to hear the last portion of the 
remark. I'm allowin' that you can afford 
to spend a little while havin' a good time, 
seein's how, 'cordin' to all I know, you 
haven't had a day's pleasurin' in thirty years 
— I ain't countin' yesterday." 

The old lobster catcher could not well re- 
fuse to join in the plans which had been made 


310 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

by the people of Southport, more particularly 
since they had been arranged with a view to 
the benefit of himself and the “ family/’ and 
by the time Mr. Mansfield and Deacon Stubbs 
had come to the end of an exceedingly hearty 
breakfast Uncle Ben was on deck helping to 
take aboard the first load of furniture. 

The three boys were in high spirits at the 
prospect of deep-sea fishing, as well as not a 
little pleased at the idea of having the new 
house entirely furnished, and a jolly time 
they had while aiding in taking on board the 
cargo. 

Things are goin’ to be mighty fine over 
on Apple Island,” Tommy said, as he stood 
gazing in open-mouthed admiration at a well- 
worn bureau on which was painted in gaudy 
colors certain objects intended to represent 
fiowers. “ Mother Sharkey used to think she 
had a terrible swell place, but there wasn’t 
anythin’ in her house that could hold a candle 
to this ! ” 

Did you see the chairs that Mr. Mansfield 
sent inter the hold ? ” little Joey screamed. 

Every one of ’em shined as if it had jest 
come outer the shop ! Of course, we won’t 


The ^‘Housewarming” 311 

get a chance to sit on 'em ; but they'll be 
mighty good to look at ! " 

I’ll bet we can do more'n look ! ” Tommy 
cried emphatically. These things are all for 
the new house, an' it don't stand to reason 
we'd have to sit on the floor jest 'cause they 
was too fine ! " 

The boys found something to admire in 
every piece of furniture which was put 
aboard; but when baskets filled with dishes 
and cooking utensils were sent over the rail, 
Sam could not control his surprise and de- 
light. 

“ We're goin' to be fixed up like reg’lar 
swells I Jest think how the table will look 
when we have real crockery dishes on it! 
Talk 'bout cookin' 1 If a feller can't spread 
hisself with all them things to use, he oughter 
bag his head I " 

The Sally D.'s" cargo was not on board 
until nearly noon, when no less than twenty 
women and men came over the rail to be 
taken to the island, and a merry crew they 
made. Little Joey had never been petted to 
such an extent in all his short life, while Sam 
and Tom received quite as much attention as 


312 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

if they had been freaks straight from a dime 
museum, instead of very ordinary boys. 

Not until nearly nightfall did the schooner 
come to anchor in the cove opposite Uncle 
Ben’s Retreat,” and then was begun the more 
arduous labor of sending the house furnish- 
ings ashore, for it was necessary to load every- 
thing into the dories, and, afterward, carry 
it up to the new house. 

While this was being done Sam and Tommy 
hauled the traps, and when this was finished, 
at a late hour in the night, the men of South- 
port were yet engaged in the work of unload- 
ing the Sally.” 

You lads are to turn in right away, an’ 
try to get some sleep,” Uncle Ben said when 
the boys had come aboard tired with the 
heavy work of attending to the traps. “ Dea- 
con Stubbs allows that we oughter get under 
way for fishin’ bright an’ early in the mornin’, 
an’ you’ll have to look after the breakfast. 
We’re likely to be out a couple of days, an’ the 
lobster catchin’must beneglected all that time.” 

It was not very much of a task for the boys 
to journey over into Dreamland once they 
were in the bunks, and it really seemed as if 


The Housewarming” 313 

they had but just closed their eyes in slumber 
when Mr. Rowe aroused them with the an- 
nouncement that it was time to ‘‘ get breakfast 
under way.^^ 

The women of Southport slept in the new 
house on this first night, and there were no 
tokens that any of them had awakened when 
the schooner, with her very large crew, left 
the cove within five minutes after Sam and 
Tom had been awakened that they might begin 
the work of cooking. 

Little Joey, to his great delight, had been 
allowed to make one of the “ Sally D.^s ” crew 
on this occasion, but neither he nor the other 
boys saw very much of the fishing. The table 
in the cabin was so small that no more than 
six could sit around it at one time, therefore 
the meals were served in sections,’^ as Mr. 
Rowe said, and since Joey played the part of 
waiter, he and the cooks were kept busy very 
nearly all the time. 

DonT fret ^cause you canT have a line in 
your hand,’^ Mr. Rowe said when he came be- 
low for a mug of coffee after the “ Sally ” had 
arrived at the fishing grounds. “ You’ll see 
enough of that kind of work ’twixt now an’ 


314 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

next spring, an’ with sich a gang aboard 
there’s neither comfort nor pleasure to be had.” 

“Have they caught any fish yet?” Joey 
asked. 

“ Bless your heart, lad, they’ve been at it 
this half hour, an’ if it’s kept up at the same 
rate, we’re likely to have by night all that can 
be cared for.” 

In this Mr. Rowe was right. Before sunset 
the men of Southport were weary with the 
sport, and Uncle Ben declared that it would 
not be possible for his family to cure any 
more at one time. Therefore it was that the 
“ Sally’s ” bow was turned toward Apple 
Island when the shadows of evening began to 
gather, and there were no signs of the coming 
day when she glided into Apple Island cove as 
silently as a ghost. 

The next forenoon was spent in dressing the 
fish ready for curing ; but Sam and Tom were 
not called upon to do their share of the disa- 
greeable work, owing to the fact that they 
were sent out immediately after breakfast to 
haul the traps, and when this labor had been 
performed the ceremony of warming the new 
house was begun. 


The Housewarming ” 315 

Go in an’ see what she looks like, with the 
swellest kind of fixin’s in every room,” Mr. 
Rowe said, when the boys pulled in from the 
lobster car to the beach. ‘‘ You wanter go 
inter every room so’s to get a sweep of the 
whole layout, an’ I’m allowin’ you never saw 
anythin’ like it.” 

‘‘Will they let us go in?” Joey asked 
doubtfully. 

“ Let you ? Why, ain’t it your home, same 
as it’s mine ? Did you allow that we was to 
camp on the shore, an’ keep the house only to 
look at ? Of course you can go in, an’ when 
you come to the room jest over the kitchen 
that’s been fixed up for our two cooks, I reckon 
you’ll puff up the size of four ordinary boys.” 

“A whole room for only us two?” Sam 
cried incredulously. 

“ That’s what, an’ it ain’t any almshouse 
room either ! There’s a reg’lar bed with all 
the fixin’s, an’ what do you say to a whole 
lookin’-glass?” 

The boys could wait to hear no more, 
but ran at full speed until they came to that 
same room, where they stood in speechless aston- 
ishment a full minute, after which Tom cried : 


3i 6 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

‘‘ Talk about it ! It's the finest ever ! An' 
to think that we wouldn't had it but for Uncle 
Ben ! Say, Sam, we're a couple of lucky 
chaps, eh ? Who'd ever thought I'd come to 
this?" 

Not until little Joey came and literally 
dragged them away did the boys cease to ad- 
mire the apartment intended for the use of 
the cooks, and then, under the guidance of the 
** baby," they explored the entire house, find- 
ing something in every room to excite won- 
der and admiration, until having come to the 
kitchen with its apparent wealth of cooking 
utensils, when Sam spoke for the first time 
since entering the building. 

Mr. Rowe said the Southport folks only 
counted on givin' us what they had on hand 
an' couldn't use any longer ! If this stuff 
wasn't good enough for 'em, they oughter 
tried to get along with Cap'en Doak's layout 
for a couple of days ! What does Uncle Ben 
say about it ? " 

He's been right there in the sittin'-room 
this ever so long, actin' as if he didn't know 
what to say," little Joey replied. It seems 
almost as if he was sorry because it's so fine." 


The “ Housewarming ” 317 

“ I reckon he’s feelin’ kinder bad ’cause 
there ain’t more boys here, now we’ve got 
such a swell home for ’em,” Sammy said 
thoughtfully, and then he went down-stairs to 
put his face close to Uncle Ben’s as he whis- 
pered, '' I’m goin’ to try mighty hard so’s to let 
you see how glad I am you took me in.” 

“ Bless your heart, sonny, there ain’t a boy 
livin’ who could do more to show that same 
than you’ve done ever since we two come to- 
gether. It stands all of us in hand to show 
our gratitude, an’ if you can find the rest of 
the family, I’d like for ’em to go off some- 
where with me to thank the good Lord for His 
wondrous mercy an’ lovin’ kindness.” 

About the housewarming ? The people of 
Southport did that in their own way, making 
exceeding merry over it ; but I’m of the be- 
lief that Uncle Ben and his family really 
** warmed ” it when they went into one of 
the attic rooms and pledged their lives to the 
work of caring for those homeless lads whom 
they might meet. 

Did the family increase in size ? Perhaps 


3i 8 The Cruise of the Sally D. 

some day it will be possible to tell of its fa- 
mous growth ; but just now you who are 
interested in it must be content to know that 
Uncle Ben has thirty-eight boys in the “ Re- 
treat/^ and Sam and Tommy are acting as 
cooks for all those hungry mouths, while Mr. 
Rowe still claims to be the commander of the 
“ Sally 



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